secluded
sih-KLOO-did
/sɪˈkluːdɪd/
Sheltered, private, and away from general view or public traffic.
Primarily describes places or physical locations that offer privacy and quiet.
The story behind the word. From Latin secludere, combining se- ('apart') and claudere ('to shut'). A secluded place is literally 'shut apart' from the surrounding world by trees, walls, or distance.
Word relationships
- sequestered: Emphasizes legal or formal separation from outside influence.
- private: Broader term for anything restricted from public access.
- exposed: Open to view and unprotected from the elements or crowds.
- accessible: Easy for anyone to reach or enter.
Commonly confused with
- reclusive: Secluded refers to physical places; reclusive refers to people who choose to isolate themselves.
Word family
- seclude (verb): To keep away or hide from social activity.
- seclusion (noun): The state of being private and away from people.
Collocations
- secluded spot
- secluded location
- secluded beach
- secluded garden
Idioms & expressions
- off the beaten path
- tucked away
Example sentences
- "They rented a secluded cottage deep in the forest to escape the frantic pace of city life." Travel description
- "The beach was hidden behind towering limestone cliffs, making it a secluded haven for wildlife." Geography and location
Memory hook
SECLUDED = SECRET + INCLUDED (kept in a secret location). Shut apart in privacy.
When not to use
Rarely used to describe an individual's personal temperament; use 'reclusive' for people.
Fun facts
- In real estate marketing, 'secluded' is one of the highest-rated emotional appeal words for vacation properties.
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