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 Solstice East had previously been accused of abusive practices, including placing kids in seclusion for days on end and overmedicating a student to the point of hospitalization. Rachel Hale, USA Today, 11 May 2026 Mountain resorts like The Springs and Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise lean into outdoor soaking with dramatic views, while Amanemu and the Blue Lagoon retreat emphasize privacy and seclusion. Hanna Wickes, Charlotte Observer, 9 May 2026 For guests seeking more seclusion, the two-level Heavenly Penthouse and Presidential Suite come with private terraces, plunge pools, and panoramic views of Banderas Bay. Regan Stephens, Travel + Leisure, 4 May 2026 The sprawling mansion, owned at the time by the Guez family, sat behind high hedges and security gates, offering the kind of seclusion the singer sought in the final months of his life. Samantha Stutsman, PEOPLE, 29 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for seclusion
Recent Examples of Synonyms for seclusion
Noun
  • Now, Sawyer has produced a special for ABC News getting to the bottom of Simmons’s final decade of solitude.
    Bethy Squires, Vulture, 14 May 2026
  • For individuals, practices such as solitude, reflection, journaling, movement, prayer, and time in nature are not only reactive tools for moments of crisis.
    Laurel Donnellan, Forbes.com, 14 May 2026
Noun
  • Want a latté from the ground floor Sottovento Coffee Bar brought up to the privacy of your room?
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 19 May 2026
  • The nine class action lawsuits, filed in Chicago's federal court between Monday and Wednesday, represent a new frontier for Illinois' strongest-in-the-nation biometric data privacy law.
    Hannah Meisel, CBS News, 19 May 2026
Noun
  • She is thrown into isolation before getting the opportunity to once again assimilate, Marc is a genuine taskmaster, but a dedicated defender publicly and to the cops about the legitimacy of his operation and its residents.
    Pete Hammond, Deadline, 15 May 2026
  • Founded by Emma Lewis, Sarah Azzouzi and Kyla Embrey, the initiative is designed to drive foot traffic and visibility toward independent vintage retailers by encouraging stores to operate collectively rather than in isolation—an intention that aligns seamlessly with the event’s rapid expansion.
    Alexandra Harrell, Footwear News, 15 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Seclusion.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/seclusion. Accessed 21 May. 2026.

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