reclusive

adjective

re·​clu·​sive ri-ˈklü-siv How to pronounce reclusive (audio)
-ziv
Synonyms of reclusivenext
1
: seeking solitude : retiring from society
a reclusive neighbor
While Stephen King is far from reclusive, he doesn't spend much time promoting his horror-filled novels.Sarah Lyall
2
: marked by seclusion or retirement : solitary
… sit under the reclusive calm of the acacia tree.H. E. Bates
reclusively adverb
reclusiveness noun

Examples of reclusive in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The book ends with Cantrell heading off toward Maine to restart his reclusive life. Helaine Williams, Arkansas Online, 13 June 2026 For one thing, the inland taipan is very reclusive. Scott Travers, Forbes.com, 12 June 2026 Having such a large fossil deposit like this could help explain more about their reclusive lives. Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 10 June 2026 The work of the reclusive, forbiddingly erudite author turns out to be perfect easy-listening material. Namara Smith, New Yorker, 10 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for reclusive

Word History

First Known Use

1600, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of reclusive was in 1600

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Cite this Entry

“Reclusive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/reclusive. Accessed 25 Jun. 2026.

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