A way of preventing the spread of contagious illnesses, as suggested by the World Health Organization. "Social distancing" doesn't man staying inside. It means keeping a generous amount of personal space -- about three feet -- in between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing. This will prevent you from inhaling the majority of the droplets expelled by coughing or sneezing, which can carry the virus.

This encompasses a range of public health measures to put space between people and limit the spread of a contagious disease. Canceling events such as festivals and conferences, limiting the number of people in gatherings, shifting office employees to telecommuting, closing schools and nonessential businesses, confining restaurant meals to take-out only and restricting nursing home visitors are examples of social distancing.

The term is being replaced by "physical distancing" to emphasize that people should still try to stay socially connected while putting physical distance between oneself and others.

The practice of staying at least six feet away from other people, avoiding crowds and gatherings, and limiting or cancelling all unnecessary travel to reduce the spread of disease.

A term that became viral at the beginning of 2020, following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. The concept refers to the idea of avoiding people, crowds, or any other public places to prevent the spread of the virus. As of March 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) is discouraging the use of the phrase "social distancing". The organization urges people to use the phrase "physical distancing" instead.

Keeping a distance of six feet or more from strangers to prevent the spread of disease and limiting frivolous activities such as social gatherings and unnecessary travel.

The practice of avoiding contact with people outside the members of one’s own household in order to prevent the spread of the virus. This includes staying at least six feet apart, avoiding large gatherings, and limiting time spent in the same space with others.