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 The new song moves away from the Reagan-era-pop fixation of Harry’s House, an insular work also shaped by domestic seclusion in 2020. Craig Jenkins, Vulture, 23 Jan. 2026 Guests also enjoy unlimited access to the Fari Marina Village, the antithesis of the Maldives’ typical seclusion, designed as a social hub where guests can eat and mingle. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 Jan. 2026 An immersive design,182 guestrooms, suites and villas are tucked discreetly across 60 acres of mangroves and freshwater canals, balancing seclusion with a strong sense of rooted place. Roger Sands, Forbes.com, 16 Jan. 2026 She was placed in the seclusion room, but police requested a warrant for her on the current charges. Jade Jackson, IndyStar, 14 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for seclusion
Recent Examples of Synonyms for seclusion
Noun
  • When Bill’s older brother Henry (Barry Ward) finds the pianist in numbed solitude in his dingy apartment, Bill has canceled all his upcoming gigs, saying Scotty cannot be replaced.
    David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 13 Feb. 2026
  • Many people, meanwhile, don’t have room for a writer’s room, or live lives that preclude solitude, or just don’t like to sit still.
    Joshua Rothman, New Yorker, 13 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • Ives said many customers have reservations about data privacy and protection, which could be a hurdle for general AI chatbots becoming go-to services for businesses.
    John Towfighi, CNN Money, 10 Feb. 2026
  • With loving Venus entering your 12th House of Karma, privacy is even more valuable than usual.
    Tarot.com, Hartford Courant, 10 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • Loneliness and isolation have been linked to heart disease, dementia and other medical conditions.
    Kathleen Wong, USA Today, 12 Feb. 2026
  • Medical neglect, isolation, and overcrowding are routine.
    Robert B. Reich, Hartford Courant, 12 Feb. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Seclusion.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/seclusion. Accessed 14 Feb. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on seclusion

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!