introverted

adjective

in·​tro·​vert·​ed ˈin-trə-ˌvər-təd How to pronounce introverted (audio)
: 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

Examples of introverted in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Find a Communication Format That Works for You If you’re introverted, then presenting live in front of an audience is both challenging and uncomfortable. Rolling Stone Culture Council, Rolling Stone, 23 Feb. 2024 Tailoring the office space to accommodate your introverted employees, or implementing flexible or remote work options, will allow your introverted employees to feel valued and improves their performance. Kara Dennison, Forbes, 14 Feb. 2024 How well will the introverted Foster do as a fundraiser? Mirjam Swanson, Orange County Register, 12 Feb. 2024 In the film, Alfie belongs to Elly Conway, a successful yet introverted writer of spy thriller novels. Kirby Adams, The Courier-Journal, 2 Feb. 2024 Lawrence plays Maddie, a struggling 30-something who agrees to seduce a wealthy couple's introverted 19-year-old in exchange for a car. Will Harris, EW.com, 13 Nov. 2023 The future looks bright for introverted leaders who fully embrace their authentic strengths, and the organizations that promote them. Kara Dennison, Forbes, 14 Feb. 2024 In the film, Howard stars as Elly Conway, an introverted author who writes about a fictional spy named Argylle, played by Cavill. Jordan Moreau, Variety, 2 Feb. 2024 In the wake of Nirvana’s success, rock and roll was growing more sullen and more introverted, embracing dark colors and minor keys. Kelefa Sanneh, The New Yorker, 17 Jan. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'introverted.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

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

1657, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of introverted was in 1657

Dictionary Entries Near introverted

Cite this Entry

“Introverted.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/introverted. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Medical Definition

introverted

adjective
in·​tro·​vert·​ed ˈin-trə-ˌvərt-əd How to pronounce introverted (audio)
variants also introvert
: having or suggesting the characteristics of an introvert
especially : possessing a reserved or quiet nature typically with an inclination to solitude compare extroverted

More from Merriam-Webster on introverted

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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