recluse
|re-cluse|
C1
/ˈrɛkluːs/
solitary life
Etymology
Etymology Information
'recluse' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'reclusus,' where 're-' meant 'back' and 'claudere' meant 'to shut.'
Historical Evolution
'reclusus' transformed into the Old French word 'reclus,' and eventually became the modern English word 'recluse' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'shut away,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a person who lives in seclusion.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a person who lives a solitary life and tends to avoid other people.
The old man was a recluse, rarely seen outside his home.
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Antonyms
Adjective 1
characterized by seclusion; solitary.
She led a reclusive life in the mountains.
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Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45