Definition of wildernessnext
as in wild
that part of the physical world that is removed from human habitation released the wolf back into the wilderness

Synonyms & Similar Words

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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 wilderness The first two seasons of Netflix’s survival competition series Outlast were set in the remote wilderness of Alaska. — Peter White, Deadline, 10 Nov. 2026 Democrats have voiced opposition but, in terms of power, have been in the wilderness. — Gary Fields, Los Angeles Times, 6 Nov. 2026 This may be because there are many new hunters who either lack wilderness smarts or who have read articles in the magazines explaining how a man in the woods can find his way by taking bearings with a compass on top of a map. — Charles Elliott, Outdoor Life, 5 Nov. 2026 Outnumbered two-to-one and outspent by many magnitudes more, the election plunges California Republicans deeper into the political wilderness. — Ben Paviour, Sacbee.com, 4 Nov. 2026 See All Example Sentences for wilderness
Recent Examples of Synonyms for wilderness
Noun
  • The result is a movie of dazzling conundrums and vertiginous paradoxes, leading Fielder ever deeper into emotional and intellectual wilds.
    — Richard Brody, New Yorker, 9 Oct. 2026
  • Remember, this is an old-school program operating in a wild-west, NIL, transfer-portal landscape.
    — Kyle Newman, Denver Post, 9 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • The French electronic music duo have been perennial performers in the desert since their Coachella debut in 2007 and also have collaborated with Kevin Parker of headliner Tame Impala.
    — Vanessa Franko, Los Angeles Times, 11 Nov. 2026
  • This plan has faced bipartisan backlash for its involvement of Big Bend National Park, a cherished area known for its stunning canyons and pristine desert landscape.
    — Brittney Melton, NPR, 10 Nov. 2026
Noun
  • This raised concerns that European countries might be sidelined in negotiations over their own security.
    — Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 9 Nov. 2026
  • Delegates are expected to focus on carrying out existing climate pledges, expanding renewable energy and helping poorer countries adapt to rising temperatures and extreme weather.
    — Suzan Fraser, Los Angeles Times, 9 Nov. 2026
Noun
  • It was not known why the anchor failed, but the heavy snowstorm was not a direct factor, according to the statement, which commended the college students for their love of the outdoors and preparation for the climbing trip.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 4 Nov. 2026
  • Here, any distinction between spa and safari collapses, and the outdoors and wellness weave together.
    — Adrienne Matei, Condé Nast Traveler, 10 Oct. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Wilderness.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/wilderness. Accessed 11 Nov. 2026.

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