Solitude

Solitude

Solitude (/sɒlɪtjuːd/; from Latin solus, meaning 'alone') is the state of being alone, often by choice. It is frequently associated with the absence of human activity or engagement with others.

Etymology

The term "solitude" originates from the Latin word solus, which means 'alone'. It was first used in English in the 14th century to describe the state of being alone or isolated.

Related Terms

• Loneliness: A complex and usually unpleasant emotional response to isolation or lack of companionship.
• Isolation: The process or fact of isolating or being isolated, often referring to a state of being separated from others.
• Introversion: A personality trait characterized by a focus on internal feelings rather than on external sources of stimulation.
• Hermit: A person living in solitude as a religious discipline.

See Also

• Mental Health
• Psychology
• Social Interaction
• Well-being

References

• Oxford English Dictionary, 2nd ed., 1989.
• Merriam-Webster's Collegiate Dictionary, 11th ed., 2003.

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Solitude
• Wikipedia's article - Solitude

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