Solitary
ˈsɒlɪtəri
Definitions
2 meaningsExisting, living, or done alone.
ˈsɒlɪtəri
Living or existing alone
The hermit lived a solitary life in the mountains.
💡 Simply: Imagine someone who loves spending time by themselves. Like, they're happy just reading a book in a cozy corner. That's solitary! It means being alone or preferring to be alone.
👶 For kids: Being alone, like playing by yourself in your room.
More Examples
She enjoyed her solitary walks on the beach.
The detective worked on the case in solitary confinement.
How It's Used
"The solitary wolf howled at the moon."
"She enjoyed a solitary walk in the woods."
"Solitary bees do not form hives."
Done by one person; single.
ˈsɒlɪtəri
Performed or conducted by one person alone
He made a solitary attempt to solve the puzzle.
💡 Simply: Picture a race where only one person is doing it. Or being in time out. That's another way to describe solitary—something you do all by yourself.
👶 For kids: Doing something all by yourself, like eating your snack alone.
More Examples
The solitary act of meditation brought him peace.
The prisoner was held in solitary for misbehaving
How It's Used
"The prisoner was placed in solitary confinement."
"He made a solitary run for the finish."
Synonyms
Alone
Isolated
Lone
Secluded
Single
Individual
Sole
From Latin *solitarius* meaning 'lonely, deserted,' derived from *solus* meaning 'alone'.
Historically, 'solitary' has been used to describe religious hermits and individuals choosing a life of contemplation and isolation.
Memory tip
Think of a solo artist; they're solitary on stage.