isolation

noun

ˌī-sə-ˈlā-shən How to pronounce isolation (audio)
Definition of isolationnext
as in solitude
the state of being alone or kept apart from others after the long book tour, the author looked forward to the isolation of his office

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word isolation distinct from other similar nouns?

The words seclusion and solitude are common synonyms of isolation. While all three words mean "the state of one who is alone," isolation stresses detachment from others often involuntarily.

the isolation of the village in winter

In what contexts can seclusion take the place of isolation?

The synonyms seclusion and isolation are sometimes interchangeable, but seclusion suggests a shutting away or keeping apart from others often connoting deliberate withdrawal from the world or retirement to a quiet life.

lived in pastoral seclusion

When might solitude be a better fit than isolation?

While the synonyms solitude and isolation are close in meaning, solitude may imply a condition of being apart from all human beings or of being cut off by wish or circumstances from one's usual associates.

a few quiet hours of solitude

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of isolation Coffee and Cameras gives them a reason to leave that isolation behind, even if only for an evening. — Kansas City Star, 24 Aug. 2026 While some social media users believe loneliness creators encourage self-love, some online users and experts criticize them for encouraging isolation amid a time when the World Health Organization has made loneliness a global health priority. — Amen Galinato, CNN Money, 23 Aug. 2026 The pandemic was a catalyst for the isolation but so was increasing use of social media and technology, experts say. — Elaine Pofeldt, Forbes.com, 23 Aug. 2026 Some newer earbuds pair passive noise isolation with active noise cancellation. — Ryan Brennan, Charlotte Observer, 20 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for isolation
Recent Examples of Synonyms for isolation
  1. solitude
  2. privacy
  3. loneliness
Noun
  • The overwater bungalows are pretty special, hovering over lapping waves where guests can stay in total peace and solitude.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 28 Aug. 2026
  • Why does the fantasy of an artist toiling away in solitude have so much appeal?
    — Maxwell Adler, Vanity Fair, 28 Aug. 2026
Definition of solitude
Noun
  • The various configurations allow the property to accommodate a range of needs, budgets, and even levels of privacy, making the experience that much more customizable.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 29 Aug. 2026
  • The platform can be closed off from the rest of the yacht for further privacy.
    — Dea Jusufi, Forbes.com, 29 Aug. 2026
Definition of privacy
Noun
  • Summary Workplace loneliness is surging, particularly among remote and Gen Z employees, as AI and remote work reduce direct human interaction.
    — Sarah Hernholm, Forbes.com, 30 Aug. 2026
  • Orr said using social media more than three hours a day can lead to anxiety, depression, loneliness and isolation.
    — Steve Sadin, Chicago Tribune, 28 Aug. 2026
Definition of loneliness

Browse Nearby Words

isolating
isolation
isometrics
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Cite this Entry

“Isolation.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/isolation. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on isolation

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about isolation

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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