secluded
sih-KLOO-did
/sɪˈkluː.dɪd/
Not seen or visited by many people; sheltered and private.
Usually positive or neutral, describing a peaceful, sheltered physical location.
The story behind the word. Formed from Latin se- ('apart') + claudere ('to shut'). A secluded spot is literally one that has been shut away from public thoroughfares.
Word relationships
- sequestered: Sequestered often carries legal or formal isolation implications, while secluded highlights peaceful privacy.
- exposed: Exposed means open to public view and observation.
Commonly confused with
- isolated: Isolated emphasizes distance and difficulty of access; secluded emphasizes pleasant privacy.
Word family
- seclude (verb): to keep apart from others
- seclusion (noun): the state of being private and sheltered
Collocations
- secluded beach
- secluded spot
- secluded location
Example sentences
- "They spent their vacation at a secluded cabin nestled deep within the pine forest." Travel Article
Memory hook
SE-CLUDED = SHUT AWAY in a quiet corner. Shut apart in peaceful shelter.
When not to use
Do not use to describe an angry or rejected person.
Fun facts
- 'Seclude' was originally used in English legal texts to mean excluding someone from holding public office.
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