Niche

Definition

A niche refers to a specialized segment of the market for a particular kind of product or service or a suitable place or position for a person or thing.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Adjective (less common)

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /nɪtʃ/ or /niːʃ/
• Respelling: NITCH (as in "pitch") or NEESH (as in "leash")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /niːʃ/
• Respelling: NEESH (as in "leash")

In American English, "niche" can be pronounced in two ways: either as "NITCH" or "NEESH." The first pronunciation aligns more closely with the phonetic spelling, while the second matches the French origin of the word. In British English, it is typically pronounced "NEESH," reflecting the original French pronunciation. The primary stress is on the single syllable in both variations.

Etymology

The term "niche" originates from the French word "niche", which means "a recess in a wall for a statue." Historically, it referred to a recessed space in architecture. The term evolved in its usage, particularly in ecology, to describe a species' specific position or role in an ecosystem.

Derivatives

• Niched
• Nicheless
• Niche-like
• Niche market
• Niching

Synonyms

• Alcove
• Recess
• Specialization

Antonyms

• Broad
• General
• Mainstream

Usage

"Niche" can refer to both a specialized segment in the market or a suitable position/place for someone or something in the grand scheme of things.

• Many businesses find success by targeting a specific niche market.
• He carved out a niche for himself within the music industry by blending multiple genres.
• The statue is placed in a niche in the wall.

Related Terms

• Specialize
• Market segment
• Alcove

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Specialized Segment: A distinct segment of a market or an area of specialization.‍
• Example: Vegan ice cream caters to a particular niche in the dessert market.

• Position in Nature: The role or function of an organism or species in an ecosystem.‍
• Example: In the savanna, the lion's niche is that of a top predator.

• Recess in a Wall: A shallow recess, especially one in a wall, to display a statue or other ornament.‍
• Example: The cathedral had several niches with beautifully sculpted statues.

Adjective

• Catering to a Particular Audience: Specially suited for or appealing to a specific group or taste.‍
• Example: That's a niche product; not everyone will understand its appeal.