Definition

Adjective: 1. Set back or built into a surrounding surface: Describes something that is constructed or placed so that it lies within a boundary or wall, creating a flush or inset appearance. 2. Having a sunken or hollowed area: Describes something that features a depressed or indented section.

Usage

The adjective "recessed" is primarily used to describe architectural features, lighting, or physical states that are set in or hollowed. - It modifies a noun directly (e.g., recessed shelves, a recessed panel). - It can be used after a linking verb like "be" or "look" (e.g., The lighting is recessed).

Examples

• Adjective:
  • The architect designed recessed lighting in the ceiling to provide ambient light without visible fixtures.
  • A recessed doorway provided some shelter from the rain.
  • After his illness, his cheeks appeared recessed and pale.

Advanced Usage

• "to be recessed into": To be set or built into something else.
  • The bookshelves are recessed into the wall, saving floor space.

Variants and Related Words

• Recess (noun): A small space created by building part of a wall further back; a break or period of time when work stops.
  • The children played in a shady recess of the garden.
• Recess (verb): To place or set something into a recess; to take a recess.
  • The court will recess for one hour.

Synonyms

• Set-in: Built into a surface.
• Sunken: Situated below the surrounding level; hollow.
• Indented: Having a recess or notch.
• Flush (when used in contrast): Lying evenly with the surrounding surface, the opposite of being recessed.

Antonyms

• Protruding: Sticking out; projecting.
• Projecting: Extending outward beyond a surface.
• Raised: Elevated above the surrounding level.

Adjective

1. resembling an alcove
2. having a sunken area
   • hunger gave their faces a sunken look