introverted

1 of 2

adjective

in·​tro·​vert·​ed ˈin-trə-ˌvər-təd 

: having or suggesting the characteristics of an introvert

especially : possessing a reserved or quiet nature typically with an inclination to solitude

It frustrates and pains me to hear so many stories about how misunderstood and overlooked most introverted people felt when they were growing up.

—Marti Olsen Laney

compare extroverted

introverted

2 of 2

past tense and past participle of introvert entry 2

Synonyms of introverted

Adjective

• shy
• withdrawn

Examples of introverted in a Sentence

Adjective

a quiet, introverted child who likes to sit at home and read books

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

So the archetype of an uncharismatic leader is not necessarily someone unlikeable, introverted, socially incompetent or ineffective. — Tomas Chamorro-Premuzic, Forbes.com, 18 Aug. 2026

Artists are generally sort of quiet and introverted, but there was some sort of… not danger about him, exactly, but there was something going on that was exciting and intriguing. — Damon Wise, Deadline, 16 Aug. 2026

Some speak disparagingly about Murray’s introverted nature, and others prefer not to ding him. — Alec Lewis, New York Times, 28 July 2026

If the house presents as introverted and unassuming from the street, the oceanfront side opens toward the scenery. — Sam Cochran, Architectural Digest, 25 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

past participle of introvert entry 2, in psychological sense in part as translation of German introvertiert

Note: Regarding use in psychology see note at extroversion.

First Known Use

Adjective

1657, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for introverted

• controverted
• disconcerted
• extroverted
• preconcerted
• reasserted
• reconverted
• reinserted
• unconverted
• adverted
• alerted
• asserted
• averted

Medical Definition

introverted

adjective

in·​tro·​vert·​ed ˈin-trə-ˌvərt-əd 

variants also introvert

ˈin-trə-ˌvərt 

: having or suggesting the characteristics of an introvert

especially : possessing a reserved or quiet nature typically with an inclination to solitude compare extroverted