Recession is an economic term used to describe a period of DECLINE in economic activity, usually measured by a decrease in gross domestic product (GDP). The crossword solutions for the term RECESSION include CONTRACTION (11 letters), FALL (4 letters), DECLINE (7 letters), BACKSLIDING (11 letters), LAPSE (5 letters), SLUMP (5 letters), and EBB (3 letters). All of these words are used to describe a period of economic downturn, with CONTRACTION and BACKSLIDING being the most comprehensive terms. FALL, DECLINE, LAPSE, SLUMP, and EBB are all more specific terms that can be used to describe the decrease in economic activity during a recession.