Definition

Someone who prefers to be alone and avoids social interactions with others.

Example

The reclusive author rarely attended public events and preferred to write in solitude.

Conversation

Have you heard about that author who is really reclusive?

Yeah, I read that they rarely leave their house and avoid the media.

It’s interesting how some people prefer that kind of lifestyle.

I guess it makes sense if they want to focus on their work without distractions.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Reclusive → It is formed from "re-" (meaning back or again) and "claudere" (meaning to shut or close). The word describes someone who shuts themselves away or prefers to be alone, hence living in seclusion.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who 'shuts' themselves 'back' from the world — that's why reclusive means someone who prefers to be alone.

Visually Confused Words