\Al"cove\ (?; 277), n. [F. alc[^o]ve, Sp. or Pg. alcoba,
from Ar. al-quobbah arch, vault, tent.]
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.