Which word describes someone who lives in seclusion?

The word that best describes someone who lives in seclusion is "recluse." A recluse is typically a person who chooses to live away from society and social interactions, often preferring solitude. This term specifically highlights the preference for isolation or withdrawal from communal life, which aligns with the definition of living in seclusion.

In contrast, the other choices carry different meanings. "Stoic" refers to someone who can endure pain or hardship without showing feelings or complaining, which does not encompass the aspect of seclusion. "Mediocrity" describes a state of being average or ordinary, and it does not imply anything about solitude or living conditions. "Meager" pertains to a lack of quantity or quality, usually in reference to resources or provisions, and similarly does not relate to the concept of living in isolation. Thus, "recluse" is the most accurate term for someone who lives in seclusion.