Dictionary entry overview: What does solitary mean? • SOLITARY (noun) The noun SOLITARY has 2 senses: 1. confinement of a prisoner in isolation from other prisoners 2. one who lives in solitude Familiarity information: SOLITARY used as a noun is rare. • SOLITARY (adjective) The adjective SOLITARY has 5 senses: 1. characterized by or preferring solitude 2. of plants and animals; not growing or living in groups or colonies 3. lacking companions or companionship 4. being the only one; single and isolated from others 5. remote or secluded Familiarity information: SOLITARY used as an adjective is common.