Synonyms for

Solitude

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

Definition

the state of being alone or lonely

Synonyms & similar words

purdah loneliness isolation seclusion solitariness aloneness privacy retirement withdrawal reclusiveness separateness detachment quiet peace stillness calm tranquility serenity silence vacancy emptiness

Synonyms by register

Formal

seclusion privacy isolation

Informal

alone time peace and quiet me time

Literary

aloneness reclusion hermitage

Antonyms

company crowd society togetherness association interaction multitude

Common collocations

  • deep solitude
  • enjoy solitude
  • seek solitude
  • embrace solitude
  • comfortable solitude
  • utter solitude
  • blissful solitude

Word family

noun solitude
adjective solitary

Usage note

Solitude often carries a positive connotation of chosen peacefulness, unlike 'isolation' which can imply unwanted separation.

Example sentences

  1. After a long day of work, I enjoy the solitude of reading a book.
  2. The prisoner spent years in solitude in his cell.
  3. The artist sought solitude in the countryside for inspiration.
  4. She found comfort in the solitude of the empty church.
  5. The beach was a perfect place for solitude and reflection.

Quotes

  • Language... has created the word 'loneliness' to express the pain of being alone. And it has created the word 'solitude' to express the glory of being alone. - Paul Tillich
  • The greatest thing in the world is to know how to belong to oneself. - Michel de Montaigne
  • Solitude is the soul's holiday, an opportunity to stop doing for others and to surprise and delight ourselves instead. - Katrina Kenison

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