Definition of seclusionnext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word seclusion distinct from other similar nouns?

The words isolation and solitude are common synonyms of seclusion. While all three words mean "the state of one who is alone," 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

Where would isolation be a reasonable alternative to seclusion?

The synonyms isolation and seclusion are sometimes interchangeable, but isolation stresses detachment from others often involuntarily.

the isolation of the village in winter

When would solitude be a good substitute for seclusion?

The words solitude and seclusion are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, 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

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of seclusion Allen pointed to Tehama’s combination of seclusion and amenities as a major draw. David Caraccio, Sacbee.com, 17 Feb. 2026 For a real sense of seclusion, opt for one of the family pool villas that feel like miniature forts. Jennifer Flowers, AFAR Media, 30 Jan. 2026 Even in the relative seclusion of our home, the world has found us. Literary Hub, 28 Jan. 2026 In 2014, the empress left her seclusion and traveled again to the Dutch country to attend the coronation of Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands, confirming the friendly relationship between the two houses. Marta Martínez Tato, Vanity Fair, 23 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for seclusion
Recent Examples of Synonyms for seclusion
Noun
  • With few crowds and plenty of solitude, the Sawtooths linger nearby.
    Madison Chapman, Outside, 25 Mar. 2026
  • Art embraces our solitudes and our interdependencies.
    Jane M. Saks, Chicago Tribune, 23 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • To bag the loveliest tables, which jut out in frond-like tendrils towards the sea and afford extra privacy, opt for an early dinner.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 31 Mar. 2026
  • The woman, whom Newtown referred to only as Jessica to protect her privacy, activated her personal locator beacon.
    Madison Dapcevich, Outside, 31 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • The directness with which the camera meets the eyes of the film’s subjects suggests compassion for their disfigurement and isolation (indeed, Farrokhzad adopted a boy from the colony), but there are no interviews.
    Richard Brody, New Yorker, 27 Mar. 2026
  • But Gen Z are increasingly heading back to shopping malls, driven by experiences and a desire to bust out of the isolation of home.
    Nicole Fallert, USA Today, 27 Mar. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Seclusion.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/seclusion. Accessed 1 Apr. 2026.

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