isolation
UK: ˌaɪ.səˈleɪ.ʃən | US: ˌaɪ.səˈleɪ.ʃən
n. the state of being separated from others; a feeling of loneliness or exclusion
n. (medicine) the separation of a person or animal with a contagious disease from others
n. (chemistry) the process of obtaining a pure substance from a mixture
The word "isolation" emerged in the early 19th century, borrowing from French "isolation," which itself traces back to Italian "isola" (island). The concept of an island—a landmass surrounded by water—naturally evolved into the abstract idea of separation or detachment. The suffix "-ation" solidifies it as a noun denoting the state or process of being isolated. This logical progression from physical separation (island) to abstract isolation makes the term intuitive and memorable.
The patient was placed in isolation to prevent the spread of infection.
After moving to a new city, she struggled with feelings of isolation.
Scientists achieved the isolation of the compound after years of research.
Remote work can sometimes lead to social isolation.
The island's geographic isolation preserved its unique wildlife.