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
  • Now, the studio invites solitude, while the guesthouse encourages gathering.
    Kerry Pieri, Architectural Digest, 4 Mar. 2026
  • Once more then, Lavin explores a moment of pure instability in the poetics of solitude.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 3 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Thoughtfully planned and intentionally limited, this new neighborhood offers a rare opportunity to build a custom home in a setting where privacy, natural beauty, and connection come together seamlessly.
    Trident Real Estate, Kansas City Star, 10 Mar. 2026
  • Avride also said the robots are designed with privacy protections as cameras will automatically blur faces and license plates.
    Frederick Sutton Sinclair, CBS News, 10 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • DiBlasi said that using AI in social interactions stunts emotional growth and can perpetuate feelings of loneliness and isolation.
    Asuka Koda, CNN Money, 7 Mar. 2026
  • Russia is in the rare club of countries that maintains friendly relations with Tehran, which has faced years of isolation over its nuclear program and its support of proxy groups that have wreaked havoc in the Middle East, including Hezbollah, Hamas and the Houthis.
    Seung Min Kim, Los Angeles Times, 6 Mar. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Seclusion.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/seclusion. Accessed 13 Mar. 2026.

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