introverted

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

Synonyms

• backward
• bashful
• coy
• demure
• diffident
• modest
• recessive
• retiring
• self-effacing
• sheepish
• shy
• withdrawn

Examples of introverted in a Sentence

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

Recent Examples on the Web

The hymn-like number sees Clairo grappling with her public-facing persona and the comfort of an introverted life. —Ilana Kaplan, Rolling Stone, 11 July 2024

Pappas and Kroll also star; she as an introverted distance skier, and he as a volunteer dentist. —John Ortved, Vogue, 11 July 2024

Shawn Levy directed Deadpool & Wolverine, which stars Reynolds as the fun-loving, foul-mouthed antihero Deadpool/Wade Wilson and Hugh Jackman as the introverted, intense Wolverine/Logan. —Pamela McClintock, The Hollywood Reporter, 3 July 2024

Latine culture often deems introverted teens and tweens, or children between the ages of 8 and 19, as shy, reserved, or quiet. —Janel Martinez, Parents, 2 July 2024

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

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