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 Other songwriters might opt to wring notes of sadness from the whole squad getting hitched, but this one is winking at the listener, signifying the end of his seclusion in Europe and the embrace of fans who haven’t had an audience with him in a long time. Craig Jenkins, Vulture, 6 Mar. 2026 The seclusion — the water, the privacy, the distance from the world that forces them apart — is central to what the cottage represents in the story. Ryan Brennan, Charlotte Observer, 25 Feb. 2026 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 See All Example Sentences for seclusion
Recent Examples of Synonyms for seclusion
Noun
  • Perhaps most importantly, comfort with solitude transforms the experience.
    Lauren Schuster, Kansas City Star, 3 Apr. 2026
  • Books are written in solitude, but writers do some of their finest work with crowds—in public talks, interviews, and events.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 3 Apr. 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
  • Spacecraft interiors, mission protocols and the psychological challenges of long-duration isolation were grounded in actual engineering and psychological research.
    Samantha Agate, Kansas City Star, 3 Apr. 2026
  • Studies also show social media provides incredible benefits for most teens in battling isolation, boosting writing and providing access to information.
    Steven Greenhut, Oc Register, 3 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Seclusion.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/seclusion. Accessed 6 Apr. 2026.

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