reclusive

adjective

re·​clu·​sive ri-ˈklü-siv 

-ziv

1

: seeking solitude : retiring from society

a reclusive neighbor

While Stephen King is far from reclusive, he doesn't spend much time promoting his horror-filled novels.

—Sarah Lyall

2

: marked by seclusion or retirement : solitary

… sit under the reclusive calm of the acacia tree.

—H. E. Bates

reclusively adverb

reclusiveness noun

Examples of reclusive in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

This season on the frothy bodice-ripping drama, Dodd takes over the role of Francesca Bridgerton, the reclusive piano enthusiast played in seasons one and two by Ruby Stokes, who departed the show due to scheduling conflicts. —Kalia Richardson, Rolling Stone, 18 May 2024

Delving into the mythology surrounding the famously reclusive poet, the show is a charming, absurdist reimagining of one of the literary world’s most beloved voices. —Cady Lang, TIME, 16 May 2024

Wilson has seven children — two, Carnie and Wendy Wilson — with first wife Marilyn Rovell and five with Melinda. Brian, who was divorced from Rovell in 1979 and had been reclusive for years, met and dated Melinda Ledbetter on and off from 1986 to 1989. —Christie D’zurilla, Los Angeles Times, 10 May 2024

See reclusive Michael Richards reunite with Jerry Seinfeld on first red carpet in 9 years Seinfeld also bemoaned comedians who overshare about their personal lives on podcasts. —Wesley Stenzel, EW.com, 9 May 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1600, in the meaning defined at sense 2