recess

Pronunciation: /ˈriːses/ (IPA), REE-ses (American)

Origin: From Latin "recessus" meaning "a going back, retreat"

Meanings:

1. (noun) A period of time between activities when one can relax or play
2. (noun) A secluded or hidden place
3. (verb) To take a break or pause from an activity
4. (noun) A receding part of a wall or building

Example Sentences:

1. The children eagerly waited for recess to play on the playground.
2. The committee called for a recess to review the new information.
3. The judge recessed the court for lunch at noon.
4. The small recess in the wall provided a perfect spot for the statue.

Related Words:

• Nouns: break, intermission, pause, hiatus
• Verbs: pause, suspend, adjourn
• Adjectives: recessed (set back or indented)

Synonyms: break, pause, intermission, respite, interlude

Memorization Trick: Think of "RE-cess" as a time to "RE-charge" or "RE-energize" between activities. The double "s" at the end can remind you of the "s" in "pause" or "rest."