self-isolation

noun

self-iso·​la·​tion ˌself-ˌī-sə-ˈlā-shən How to pronounce self-isolation (audio)
 also  -ˌi-
: the act of isolating or separating oneself or itself from others
the country's policy of self-isolation
"Unfortunately, people with depression are notorious for self-isolation. They tend to retract from social connection, which is often the very thing they need in order to feel better," says Dr. [Pam] Garcy.PRWeb Newswire
Many high-level British officials are in self-isolation with coronavirus symptoms.Kim Hjelmgaard

Examples of self-isolation in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Hoss will play Hanna, a doctor who, during the midst of an epidemic, goes into self-isolation in the mountain wilderness to protect herself and others. Scott Roxborough, The Hollywood Reporter, 13 Mar. 2024 After three years of self-isolation by China, President Biden’s top aides are flying into Beijing throughout the summer to try to convince and cajole Chinese officials, including Xi Jinping, the nation’s leader, on building a new foundation for relations. Alan Rappeport, New York Times, 10 July 2023 But judging from Maartemami's experience, as well as child psychologists' and pediatricians' concerns about how little self-isolation is actually benefiting kids, calming corners and time off spaces might be a healthier way to go. Maressa Brown, Parents, 11 June 2023 The incident clearly showed the woman was violating her self-isolation order, which put the driver at risk of infection. Beth Mole, Ars Technica, 3 Mar. 2023 The royal tested positive four days after her husband, who was then known as Prince Charles, entered self-isolation following his own positive coronavirus diagnosis. Janine Henni, Peoplemag, 22 Feb. 2023 Camilla, 75, tested positive four days after her husband, who was then known as Prince Charles, entered self-isolation following his own positive coronavirus diagnosis. Janine Henni, Peoplemag, 16 Feb. 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'self-isolation.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1834, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-isolation was in 1834

Dictionary Entries Near self-isolation

Cite this Entry

“Self-isolation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-isolation. Accessed 29 Mar. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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