niches

Noun

niche (plural niches)

1. A cavity, hollow, or recess, generally within the thickness of a wall, for a statue, bust, or other erect ornament.
   • On the margin of this long tract, are abundance of shrines and images, defended from the injuries of the weather by niches of stone wherein they are placed.1641, John Evelyn, edited by William Bray, John Evelyn's Diary, volume 1, London: Henry Colburn, published 1850, page 34

   Synonyms:

   nook

2. Any similar position, literal or figurative.
3. Specifically, a cremation niche; a columbarium.
4. A function within an ecological system to which an organism is especially suited.
5. (broadly) Any position of opportunity for which one is well-suited, such as a particular market in business.
   • I managed to carve out a niche for myself in the world of investigative journalism.

   Synonyms:

   specialty, specialization

6. An arrow woven into a prayer rug pointing in the direction of qibla.

See all 9 meanings of niche