The word "solitary" is spelled /ˈsɒl.ɪ.tər.i/, with the stress on the second syllable. The sound /s/ represents the beginning consonant blend and is followed by the vowel sound /ɒ/ which is pronounced as the short "o" sound. The next syllable contains the consonant blend /l/ and ends with the vowel sound /ɪ/ pronounced as the short "i" sound. The final syllable contains the sound /t/ followed by the vowel sound /ə/, which is pronounced as the schwa sound.
Solitary is an adjective that is often used to describe a person or thing characterized by being alone, isolated, or separate from others. It denotes a condition or state of being where an individual seeks seclusion or prefers to be by themselves. It can also represent a specific mode of existence, action, or habitat that lacks interaction or companionship with others.
In reference to a person, "solitary" describes someone who chooses to be alone and enjoys their own company, often spending significant periods of time in seclusion. It can imply a sense of independence or introversion, and is often associated with quiet contemplation or self-reflection.
"Solitary" can also describe an object, location, or condition that is singular or unique, set apart or detached from a group or broader context. For example, a solitary tree standing all alone in a field, or a solitary confinement cell in a prison.
Furthermore, "solitary" can refer to an animal species that lives, hunts, or travels alone rather than in groups or packs. Such creatures often exhibit a preference for independence or have adapted to a more solitary lifestyle for survival in their particular habitat or ecosystem.
Overall, "solitary" encompasses the idea of being alone, separate, or independent, whether it pertains to people, objects, conditions, or animals, emphasizing a lack of companionship or connection with others.
Alone, single, not agminated or forming one of a group.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
• One who lives alone; a hermit.
• Living alone; lonely; remote from society; not much frequented; gloomy; dismal; occurring singly.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "solitary" can be traced back to the Latin term "solitarius", which is derived from the root word "solus", meaning "alone" or "only". In Latin, "sōlitārius" referred to someone who lived in solitude or seclusion. Over time, it was adopted into Old French as "solitaire" with a similar meaning, and eventually made its way into Middle English as "solitary" in the 14th century. The word has retained its basic sense of being alone or isolated throughout its evolution.