seclude

UK: sɪˈkluːd | US: sɪˈkluːd

Definition

  1. vt. to isolate or keep away from others

  2. vt. to place in a private or hidden location

Structure
se <apart>clude <shut>se <apart>clude <shut>
Etymology

The word seclude originates from Latin secludere, combining se- (apart) and cludere (to shut). It originally described physically shutting something away, later evolving to imply social or emotional isolation. The logic mirrors modern usage: "shutting apart" → "keeping separate."

Examples

  1. The monastery was built to seclude monks from worldly distractions.

  2. She chose to seclude herself in the countryside for a year.

  3. The wealthy family secluded their mansion behind high walls.

  4. Certain animals seclude their young in hidden nests.

  5. The library’s rare books are secluded in a climate-controlled vault.