noun / adjective
recluse
REK-loos/ˈrekluːs/
A person who lives apart from others, or a secluded way of living.
The old writer lives as a recluse in the mountains.
Etymology
The image is of being shut away, with re- perhaps intensifying the idea. Originally a recluse withdrew from the world for religious meditation; the word later broadened to someone who avoids society.
In context
Having Asperger's, you know, I would just kind of stay to myself and you know, be in my own world. Uh I did become a social recluse. I did actually try to avoid people
More examples
- After retiring, he becomes a recluse and rarely leaves home.
- Even a recluse needs someone to call in an emergency.
- The two recluses live in separate cabins far from town.
Forms
recluse · recluses
reclusive adjective — Preferring to live apart from others.
Similar words
- hermit
- Often suggests remote living or withdrawal for religious reasons.
- loner
- Prefers being alone but need not live in seclusion.