alcove Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a small recess opening off a larger room
    bay.

WordNet

Al"cove noun
Etymology
F. alcôve, Sp. or Pg. alcoba, from Ar. al-quobbah arch, vault, tent.
Definitions
  1. (Arch.) A recessed portion of a room, or a small room opening into a larger one; especially, a recess to contain a bed; a lateral recess in a library.
  2. A small ornamental building with seats, or an arched seat, in a pleasure ground; a garden bower. Cowper.
  3. Any natural recess analogous to an alcove or recess in an apartment.
    The youthful wanderers found a wild alcove. Falconer.

Webster 1913