Reclusive: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe someone who deliberately avoids others and lives away from society, often for personal or psychological reasons.

• The reclusive author refused to give interviews and rarely left his house
• She became reclusive after the tragic event, seeing almost no one

Describes the state of being alone, often used to emphasize the absence of companionship. This word can have a neutral or a slightly melancholic connotation.

• He enjoyed his solitary walks in the park every morning
• The prisoner spent weeks in solitary confinement as punishment

Used when someone or something is physically separated from others, giving a sense of loneliness but not necessarily by choice.

• The small village was isolated from the rest of the country by mountains
• He felt isolated in the new city, far away from family and friends

Refers to someone who is shy or introverted, avoiding social interaction. It often suggests a choice, but sometimes implies sadness or emotional distress.

• After her friend moved away, she became increasingly withdrawn and quiet
• The child had a withdrawn demeanor, often preferring to play alone

Used to describe someone who lives in seclusion, often avoiding social interactions and public life.

• She led a reclusive life in the mountains, rarely seen by her neighbors

Refers to a person who chooses to live in solitude, often for religious or spiritual reasons. It can imply a more extreme level of isolation than 'reclusive'.

• The old man lived as a hermit in a small cabin in the forest, dedicating his life to prayer

Refers to a person who prefers to be alone or operates independently of others. It can have a negative or neutral connotation depending on the context.

• He was known as a loner at school, often sitting by himself during lunch

Describes someone who tends to be more reserved and less outgoing, typically feeling more energized by solitary activities rather than social interactions. It does not necessarily imply complete isolation.

• As an introvert, he preferred reading books over attending parties