n. [ F., fr. It. nicchia, prop., a shell-like recess in a wall, fr. nicchio a shellfish, mussel, fr. L. mytilus. ] A cavity, hollow, or recess, generally within the thickness of a wall, for a statue, bust, or other erect ornament. Hence, any similar position, literal or figurative. [ 1913 Webster ]
Images defended from the injuries of the weather by niches of stone wherein they are placed. Evelun. [ 1913 Webster ]
. a. Placed in a niche. “Those niched shapes of noble mold.” Tennyson. [ 1913 Webster ]