Nîche, n.

(nĭch), n. [Fr. niche, Sp. & Pg. nicha, nicho, It. nicchia, properly a shell-like recess in a wall, from It. nicchio, shell-fish, muscle, from Lat. mytilus.] A cavity, hollow, or recess, generally within the thickness of a wall, for a statue, bust, or other erect ornament. “Images defended from the injuries of the weather by niches of stone wherein they are placed.” Evelyn.