How to Pronounce Recess

To pronounce "recess", say REC-ess — 2 syllables, IPA /ɹɪ.ˈsɛs/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

recess

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Accent

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Speed

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2

Syllables

6

Letters

/ɹɪ.ˈsɛs/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “recess”

"recess" has 2 syllables: rec-ess. It rhymes with nonetheless and nevertheless, if that helps it stick.

What does recess mean?

noun

  1. A break, pause or vacation.

    “Spring recess offers a good chance to travel.”

  2. An inset, hole, space or opening.

    “Put a generous recess behind the handle for finger space.”

verb

  1. To inset into something, or to recede.

    “Recess the screw so it does not stick out.”

  2. To take or declare a break.

    “Class will recess for 20 minutes.”

adjective

  1. Remote, distant (in time or place).

Synonyms

breakday offhiatusmoratoriumpausevacation

Hear “recess” in real sentences

Real example sentences from Tatoeba (CC-BY) — tap to hear each one, or see it used on YouGlish.

Words that rhyme with recess

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

nonethelessneverthelesscoalescedistressacquiesceaddresscaressassessprocessegressexpressfinesse

Related words

adjourndeferralrespiteinletbreakrecessioncornerniche

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "recess"?▾

"Recess" has 2 syllables: rec · ess.

What is the IPA transcription of "recess"?▾

The IPA transcription of "recess" is /ɹɪ.ˈsɛs/.

What does "recess" mean?▾

Recess: A break, pause or vacation.

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