solitary confinement

American  

[sol-i-ter-ee kuhn-fahyn-muhnt] / ˈsɒl ɪˌtɛr i kənˈfaɪn mənt /

noun

1. the confinement of a prisoner in a cell or other place in which they are completely isolated from others.

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solitary confinement British  

noun

1. isolation imposed on a prisoner, as by confinement in a special cell

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Etymology

Origin of solitary confinement

First recorded in 1775–85

Example Sentences

Both he and Brock reported extended solitary confinement stints—four months for Mock, seven for Brock.

From Slate • May 28, 2026

At times she was able to meet other NLD officials and selected diplomats, but during the early years she was often in solitary confinement.

From BBC • May 1, 2026

Seven years later, Gonzales was transferred to Pelican Bay State Prison’s Security Housing Unit, then the most restrictive facility in California, where he was held in solitary confinement for about 25 years.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 5, 2026

Lai was kept in solitary confinement at his own request to avoid harassment, prosecutors said.

From Barron's • Feb. 8, 2026

I assured him that solitary confinement would be fine as long as I could wear and eat what I chose.

From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela