1. A period of temporary economic decline, generally identified by a fall in GDP in two successive quarters
   "The country entered a recession, with rising unemployment and falling consumer spending"
    
2. The act of becoming more distant
   "The recession of the tide left shells on the beach"
    
3. A small concavity
   "The statue was placed in a recession in the wall";
   - recess, niche, corner
    
4. The withdrawal of the clergy and choir from the chancel to the vestry at the end of a church service
   "The congregation stood as the recession began"

Derived forms: recessions

Type of: concave shape, concavity, economic condition, incurvation, incurvature, procession, withdrawal

Encyclopedia: Recession