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

The first film from directors Andrew Adamson and Vicky Jenson released in 2001 and followed the titular ogre whose life of blissful solitude is interrupted by an invasion of fairy tale creatures, who were recently banished from the kingdom by the evil Lord Farquaad (voiced by John Lithgow). —Jessica Wang, EW.com, 27 Feb. 2025

Where once there was chaos and disorder, now there’s nothing but peace and solitude—for probably the next 4.5 minutes. —Patricia Shannon, Southern Living, 7 Mar. 2025

Seeking solitude under the first quarter moon might confuse those who've recently stepped up to support you. —USA TODAY, 6 Mar. 2025

The solitude and adrenaline sharpen my thinking and create clarity for solving challenges. —Expert Panel®, Forbes, 25 Feb. 2025