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• withdrawn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

The researchers did not find equivalent evidence that introverted participants preferred an introverted AI. — Paul Jones, Scientific American, 7 Sep. 2026

González is introverted, but comes across as warm and cheerful. — Jesús Rodríguez, New Yorker, 6 Sep. 2026

Until then he had been considered a rather introverted character, someone who kept a low profile. — Laia Cervelló Herrero, New York Times, 5 Sep. 2026

The season will focus on the introverted Francesca Bridgerton (Hannah Dodd) and Michaela Stirling (Masali Baduza). — Peter White, Deadline, 25 Aug. 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