Recessed: meaning, definitions and examples

Similar to 'sunken', but 'recessed' frequently implies a deliberate architectural feature designed for aesthetic purposes or space-saving.

• The recessed seating area created a cozy nook in the room.
• Recessed handles on the drawers give the furniture a sleek look.

This word has a slightly negative or descriptive tone, often used to describe areas that appear lower in level than the surroundings, such as features in a landscape or face. It may imply an impression of neglect or disrepair.

• The garden had a beautiful sunken patio.
• He had sunken eyes, showing signs of fatigue.

Use this word when something is firmly set or fixed into a surrounding material. It is commonly used in technology or descriptions of how an object is integrated into another.

• The microchip is embedded in the device.
• The journalist embedded a hidden camera in the room.

Used to describe the action of placing something into a recessed position. It is often applied in technical or construction contexts.

• Recessing the light fixtures helped give the room a cleaner look.
• They are recessing the new cabinets to make more room in the kitchen.

Commonly used in formal settings, such as courts or legislative bodies, to indicate a break or pause in proceedings, suggesting that the activity will resume after the break.

• The court recessed for lunch and will reconvene at 2 PM.
• The committee recessed for the day and will continue discussions tomorrow.

Typically used when an activity or privilege is temporarily stopped, often due to a specific reason, with the expectation that it might resume later under certain conditions. Can have a negative connotation when referring to discipline or penalties.

• The student was suspended for violating the school's code of conduct.
• Production was suspended due to safety concerns.

Used when something comes to an abrupt stop, often due to a sudden issue or need for immediate attention. It implies a complete and immediate stop, often with no clear indication of when or if it will resume.

• The train came to a halt due to a technical malfunction.
• The project was brought to a halt after discovering fundamental flaws in the design.

Used when an event or activity is delayed to a future time or date, indicating that it will definitely happen later but not as originally scheduled.

• The meeting has been postponed until next Monday.
• Due to the weather, the concert was postponed by a week.