Cloistered: meaning, definitions and examples
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cloistered
[ˈklɔɪstərd ]
Definitions
quiet and secluded
Sheltered from the outside world, cloistered individuals often find solace in solitude.
Synonyms
isolated, secluded, sheltered.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| cloistered |
This word is often used to describe a life or environment that is completely shut off from the outside world, typically for religious or scholarly reasons.
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| secluded |
This word often suggests privacy and being away from others, usually in a peaceful, relaxing manner. Frequently used to describe locations.
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| isolated |
Used to describe a person or place that is completely separated from others. Can be used in both positive and negative contexts, often implying loneliness or lack of communication/resources.
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| sheltered |
This word is typically used to describe individuals, particularly children, who are protected from worldly challenges or negative experiences, often implying overprotection.
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Examples of usage
- She lived a cloistered life in a remote monastery.
- The cloistered library provided a peaceful environment for study.
confined or shut away
The prisoner was cloistered in his cell for days without any contact with the outside world.
Synonyms
confined, enclosed, shut away.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| cloistered |
Appropriate when describing a secluded or sheltered life, often with a connotation of tranquility or study. Frequently used in religious or academic contexts.
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| confined |
Best used when emphasizing restriction or limitation of movement or action, often with a negative connotation.
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| shut away |
Implies being placed out of sight or isolated, often with a rather negative connotation suggesting abandonment or neglect.
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| enclosed |
Used when indicating something that is surrounded or closed off on all sides. Often refers to physical spaces with clear boundaries.
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Examples of usage
- She felt cloistered in her own thoughts.
- The cat cloistered itself in the dark corner of the room.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from the Latin term 'claustrum,' meaning 'enclosure' or 'to shut.'
- In medieval times, it referred to the enclosed areas of monasteries, where monks lived apart from society.
- Its use evolved over time, capturing both physical and metaphorical senses of being isolated.
Architecture
- Historically, cloistered spaces are often found in monasteries, featuring covered walkways around a courtyard.
- Cloisters were designed to provide a peaceful environment for meditation and reflection, separated from busy life.
- Many ancient universities had cloisters, symbolizing a space of scholarly retreat.
Psychology
- Being cloistered can relate to feelings of solitude or introspection, shaping one’s thoughts away from distractions.
- Some studies suggest that being in isolated environments helps enhance creativity or deep thinking.
- However, prolonged isolation may lead to feelings of loneliness, showing the fine balance needed in such settings.
Pop Culture
- In literature, characters who are cloistered often undergo significant personal growth, highlighting the theme of self-discovery.
- Films sometimes portray cloistered characters as outcasts who eventually uncover their true potential through solitude.
- In music, artists often write about the experience of being cloistered, conveying the complexity of emotions tied to isolation.
Historical Context
- Cloistered communities, such as certain religious orders, have a long history of promoting silence and meditation.
- During significant pandemics, many chose cloistered lifestyles to ensure safety, leading to a resurgence of community-focused living.
- The practice continues today in various forms, from self-imposed retreats to monasteries dedicated to seclusion.
Translations
Translations of the word "cloistered" in other languages:
🇵🇹 claustrado
🇮🇳 संन्यास
🇩🇪 abgeschieden
🇮🇩 terpencil
🇺🇦 ізольований
🇵🇱 odosobniony
🇯🇵 隠遁した
🇫🇷 cloîtré
🇪🇸 claustrado
🇹🇷 inzivaya çekilmiş
🇰🇷 은둔한
🇸🇦 منعزل
🇨🇿 odloučený
🇸🇰 odlúčený
🇨🇳 隐居的
🇸🇮 osamljen
🇮🇸 einangraður
🇰🇿 оқшауланған
🇬🇪 მარტოსული
🇦🇿 təcrid olunmuş
🇲🇽 claustrado