Emily Dickinson Lexicon

AL-COVE', n. [Sp. alcoba, composed of al, with the Ar. قَبَّ kabba, to arch, to construct with an arch, and its derivatives, an arch, a round house; Eng. cubby.]

1. A recess, or part of a room, separated by an estrade, or partition of columns, or by other corresponding, ornaments; in which is placed a bed of state, and sometimes seats for company. The bed is sometimes raised two or three steps, with a rail at the foot. These are frequent in Spain. – Encyc.
2. A recess in a library, or small lateral apartment for books.