loneliness

noun

lone·​li·​ness ˈlōnlēnə̇s 

-lin-

plural -es

1

a

: the fact or condition of being alone : isolation

had become frightened by the loneliness of her position in life

—Sherwood Anderson

the impersonality and loneliness of modern mass civilization

—C. B. Forcey

b

: a seclusion from others : a deliberately selected state of solitude : separateness

holding herself aloof in chosen loneliness

—P. E. More

2

: a remoteness from human habitation : bleakness, desolateness

the loneliness of the spot was set off by the unbroken snow around it

3

: a state of dejection or grief caused by the condition of being alone

felt so forlorn, so helpless, filled as she was with gnawing loneliness

—O. E. Rölvaag

often the artist has an aching sense of great loneliness

—J. R. Oppenheimer

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now