What best defines a "recluse"?

The term "recluse" best describes someone who lives in seclusion, indicating a person who tends to withdraw from social interactions and prefers solitude. This definition captures the essence of reclusiveness, highlighting a lifestyle characterized by isolation from society and a preference for being alone rather than engaging in communal activities.

In contrast, the other options describe behaviors or characteristics that are fundamentally different from those of a recluse. Engaging frequently with companions or being active in societal interactions reflects sociability rather than seclusion. Similarly, actively engaging with society or traveling often implies a connection to others and a public presence, which contradicts the nature of a recluse. Thus, the first option accurately encapsulates the idea of living in seclusion, making it the best definition.