solitude

noun

sol·​i·​tude ˈsä-lə-ˌtüd 

-ˌtyüd

1

: the quality or state of being alone or remote from society : seclusion

2

: a lonely place (such as a desert)

Synonyms

• privacy
• isolation
• loneliness
• aloneness

Choose the Right Synonym for solitude

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 solitude in a Sentence

She wished to work on her novel in solitude.

He enjoyed the peace and solitude of the woods.

Recent Examples on the Web

Pay attention to what comes up in your quiet moments of solitude, Scorpio. —Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 14 Oct. 2025

From hidden groves and quiet trails to windswept shores and off-the-beaten paths, these locations were chosen for their ability to offer visitors a true escape — places to unwind and enjoy moments of solitude and peace away from the crowds. —Laura Daniella Sepulveda, AZCentral.com, 10 Oct. 2025

Known for its 33 white sand beaches, travelers from around the world find a mix of peace, solitude, and adventure throughout Anguilla. —Michael Cappetta, Travel + Leisure, 8 Oct. 2025

And increasingly, women are choosing solitude and self-fulfillment over unsatisfying relationships. —Melissa Fleur Afshar, MSNBC Newsweek, 7 Oct. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Middle French & Latin; Middle French, from Latin solitudin-, solitudo, from solus

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for solitude

• altitude
• amplitude
• aptitude
• attitude
• barbecued
• certitude
• desuetude
• devalued
• finitude
• fortitude
• gratitude
• interlude

Kids Definition

solitude

noun

sol·​i·​tude ˈsäl-ə-ˌt(y)üd 

1

: the quality or state of being alone or far-off from society : seclusion, loneliness

2

: a lonely place (as a desert)

Etymology

Middle English solitude "the state of being alone," from early French solitude (same meaning), from Latin solitudin-, solitudo (same meaning), from solus "alone" — related to desolate, sole entry 4, solo