cloistered

[ kloi-sterd ]

adjective

1. secluded from the world; sheltered:

   a cloistered life.

   Synonyms: aloof, isolated, withdrawn

2. having a cloister or cloisters.

ˈcloistered

/ ˈklɔɪstəd /

adjective

1. secluded or shut up from the world
2. living in a monastery or nunnery
3. (of a building, courtyard, etc) having or provided with a cloister

Other Words From

• non·cloistered adjective
• un·cloistered adjective
• well-cloistered adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of cloistered¹

First recorded in 1575–85; cloister + -ed ²

Example Sentences

“It is cloistered, but with an underlying power.”

From Los Angeles Times

The cloistered politicking devolves into lunchroom antics and social warfare akin to a high school movie, but this swirling whirlpool of interpersonal drama is grounded by the pomp and circumstance of centuries-old ritual: garments and ballots and hierarchy.

From Los Angeles Times

The rich, dim interiors of Cohn’s cloistered world give way to the gaudy, golden posturing of Trump’s living spaces.

From Los Angeles Times

After being cloistered in a basement cage for nearly a year, Tonka just wanted to be outside.

From Los Angeles Times

The heist was one of six carried out at Bricks & Minifigs outlets across the Southland since April, a $100,000-plus crime spree that, on the heels of other similar incidents, has rattled the growing — but cloistered — world of Lego collectors and merchants.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• reclusive
• sheltered