Synonyms of solitude

solitude

noun

ˈsä-lə-ˌtüd 

as in privacy

the state of being alone or kept apart from others

sought the kind of solitude where his thoughts would be his only companions

Synonyms & Similar Words

• privacy
• isolation
• loneliness
• aloneness
• seclusion
• segregation
• solitariness
• separateness
• insulation
• confinement
• sequestration
• retirement
• internment
• secludedness
• lonesomeness
• vacuum
• withdrawal
• quarantine
• incarceration
• ghettoization

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• society
• companionship
• company
• fellowship
• camaraderie
• comradeship

Synonym Chooser

How is the word solitude distinct from other similar nouns?

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

When is it sensible to use isolation instead of solitude?

The words isolation and solitude are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, isolation stresses detachment from others often involuntarily.

the isolation of the village in winter

When can seclusion be used instead of solitude?

The words seclusion and solitude can be used in similar contexts, but 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

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of solitude

And if solitude is your jam, Cheung Sha Beach's sprawling sands whisper your name. —Condé Nast Traveler, 22 Feb. 2026

Consider pausing a debate, rescheduling an extra meeting, or turning a workout into a quiet walk, because solitude restores your energy and lets new ideas surface. —Tarot.com, Baltimore Sun, 18 Feb. 2026

While the death-defying moments stay with her, Smith says the solitude and beauty of nature proved even more prevalent. —Rachel Roberts, Idaho Statesman, 14 Feb. 2026

At the top of the mountain, 2,000 meters above sea level, before skiers throw themselves down the slope, lies a place of solitude away from the raucous crowd. —Charlotte Harpur, New York Times, 13 Feb. 2026