isolation

noun

iso·​la·​tion ˌī-sə-ˈlā-shən 

 also  ˌi-

: the action of isolating : the condition of being isolated

Synonyms

• solitude
• privacy
• loneliness

Choose the Right Synonym for isolation

solitude, isolation, seclusion mean the state of one who is alone.

solitude may imply a condition of being apart from all human beings or of being cut off by wish or circumstances from one's usual associates.

a few quiet hours of solitude

isolation stresses detachment from others often involuntarily.

the isolation of the village in winter

seclusion suggests a shutting away or keeping apart from others often connoting deliberate withdrawal from the world or retirement to a quiet life.

lived in pastoral seclusion

Examples of isolation in a Sentence

the isolation of the mountain community

after the long book tour, the author looked forward to the isolation of his office

Recent Examples on the Web

Kim’s grandfather, Kim Il-Sung, was among the key figures in the WPK’s 1945 founding, and played a role in the decision to invade South Korea in 1950, leading to the northern state’s continuing isolation. —Tom Chivers, semafor.com, 9 Oct. 2025

While many governments defended Israel's initial right to respond to the attack, the scale of civilian death and suffering wrought by its war have drawn increasing international condemnation and isolation for the Jewish state. —Alexander Smith, NBC news, 9 Oct. 2025

Coverdale said spots like Stephan, where Crow Creek is based, struggle to attract workers in part because of their isolation. —Jessica Coacci, Fortune, 8 Oct. 2025

The combination of political isolation and military readiness suggests the administration is setting the stage for further escalation in its confrontation with Caracas, raising tensions across the region and potential risks for broader international security. —Amir Daftari, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 Oct. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1833, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing isolation

• in isolation
• reproductive isolation
• self-isolation

Rhymes for isolation

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation

Kids Definition

isolation

noun

iso·​la·​tion ˌī-sə-ˈlā-shən 

 also  ˌis-ə-

1

: the act of isolating : the condition of being isolated

2

: separation of a population of living things from related forms in such a manner as to prevent crossbreeding

Medical Definition

isolation

noun

iso·​la·​tion ˌī-sə-ˈlā-shən 

1

: the action of isolating or condition of being isolated

isolation of a virus

put the patient in isolation

2

: a segregation of a group of organisms from related forms in such a manner as to prevent crossing

3

: a psychological defense mechanism consisting of the separating of ideas or memories from the emotions connected with them