niche

Meanings

Noun

• A cavity, hollow, or recess, generally within the thickness of a wall, for a statue, bust, or other erect ornament.
• Any similar position, literal or figurative.
• Specifically, a cremation niche; a columbarium.
• A function within an ecological system to which an organism is especially suited.
• Any position of opportunity for which one is well-suited, such as a particular market in business.
• An arrow woven into a prayer rug pointing in the direction of qibla.

Verb

• To place in a niche.
• To specialize in a niche, or particular narrow section of the market.

Adjective

• Pertaining to or intended for a market niche; having specific appeal.

Origin

• From French niche, from Middle French niche, from Old French niche, from nicher (modern French nicher), from Vulgar Latin *nīdicāre, from Latin nīdus. nidus, and nide via Latin and nest via Proto-Indo-European; also related to nyas.