ETYM French alcôve, Spanish or Portu. alcoba, from Arabic al-quobbah arch, vault, tent.
A small recess opening off a larger room; SYN. bay.

ETYM Old Eng. nok; cf. Gael. and Irish niuc.
1. A sheltered and secluded place.
2. An interior angle formed by two meeting walls.
3. A small often recessed section of a larger room.

1. The action of receding; recession
2. A hidden, secret, or secluded place or part
3. Indentation, cleft; alcove
4. A suspension of business or procedure often for rest or relaxation