Recluse

/rɪˈkluːs/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A person who lives a solitary life and tends to avoid other people.
After the death of his wife, he became a recluse, rarely leaving his home.
A hermit or someone who withdraws from society for religious reasons.
The monk chose to live as a recluse in the forest, seeking spiritual enlightenment.
An individual who prefers to be alone and is often socially withdrawn.
The famous author was known as a recluse, spending most of his days in quiet isolation.

Etymology

From Latin 'reclusus', the past participle of 'recludere', meaning 'to shut up'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

hermit lifestyle
A way of living characterized by solitude and seclusion.
social recluse
A person who avoids social interactions.
reclusive nature
The tendency to prefer solitude over socializing.

Related Words

hermit
A person who lives in solitude, often for religious reasons.
isolation
The state of being separated from others.
solitude
The state or situation of being alone.

Slang Meanings

A loner
He's a bit of a recluse; he prefers video games to parties.
A shut-in
After quitting his job, he became a recluse, just staying home all the time.