Synonyms for

Solitary

Verb / ˈsɑ:lʌˌteri: / Another word for solitary — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Solitary means being alone or isolated from others.

Synonyms & similar words

lonesome hermit troglodyte unfrequented nonsocial solitudinarian solitaryconfinement only lone sole recluse lonely nongregarious alone lonely alone secluded isolated hermitic reclusive sequestered desolate silent withdrawn introverted lonesome solitude solitude remote detached separate unaccompanied unattended unsociable

Synonyms by register

Formal

secluded isolated reclusive unsociable

Informal

alone on your own by yourself

Literary

lone unaccompanied singular

Antonyms

accompanied social gregarious connected together public crowded

Common collocations

  • solitary confinement
  • solitary figure
  • solitary walker
  • solitary tree
  • solitary life
  • solitary pursuit
  • solitary room

Word family

noun solitude
adverb solitarily

Usage note

Often used to describe someone who prefers to be alone or something that is the only one of its kind. Can sometimes carry a negative connotation of loneliness, but also a positive one of peaceful independence.

Example sentences

  1. The cat was a solitary creature, preferring to nap alone in the sun.
  2. After the death of his wife, the old man lived a solitary life.
  3. The scientist spent many solitary nights in the lab, working on his experiments.
  4. The hermit lived in a solitary hut in the woods, far away from civilization.
  5. The prisoner was kept in solitary confinement for weeks on end.

Quotes

  • The greatest thing in the world is to know how to belong to oneself.
  • Solitude is the soul's holiday, an opportunity to stop doing for others and to surprise and delight ourselves instead.
  • Solitude is creativity's best friend, and solitude is refreshment for our souls.

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