withdrawn

adjective

with·​drawn wit͟h-ˈdrȯn How to pronounce withdrawn (audio)
with-
Synonyms of withdrawnnext
1
: removed from immediate contact or easy approach : isolated
2
: socially detached and unresponsive : exhibiting withdrawal : introverted
a shy and withdrawn child
withdrawnness noun

Examples of withdrawn in a Sentence

He became more withdrawn after his brother's death. She was withdrawn as a child but is now more outgoing.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The Flynns’ pompous neighbor, Jim Doherty, a divorcé with a withdrawn, unpleasant son, encourages Catherine’s artistic rebirth. Hannah Gold, New Yorker, 21 Jan. 2026 Off-screen, Affleck has a slightly rougher star persona, while Damon’s can be a little more withdrawn and intellectual. David Sims, The Atlantic, 21 Jan. 2026 The story follows Trey, a withdrawn ex-con surviving as a night driver on the city’s margins, who forms a tentative and increasingly intimate bond with Camden (Dafne Keen), a sharp and restless young woman working as a call girl. Alex Ritman, Variety, 20 Jan. 2026 These include frequent unexplained injuries, chronic lack of supervision, new adults entering the home without explanation, ongoing exhaustion after transitions, or a child who suddenly seems fearful or withdrawn. Jann Blackstone, Boston Herald, 23 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for withdrawn

Word History

First Known Use

1615, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of withdrawn was in 1615

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Cite this Entry

“Withdrawn.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/withdrawn. Accessed 27 Jan. 2026.

Kids Definition

withdrawn

adjective
with·​drawn wit͟h-ˈdrȯn How to pronounce withdrawn (audio)
with-
1
: removed from immediate or easy approach : isolated
withdrawn mountain communities
2
: not socially active or interested : introverted
a shy and withdrawn child

Medical Definition

withdrawn

adjective
with·​drawn wit͟h-ˈdrȯn How to pronounce withdrawn (audio)
: socially detached and unresponsive : exhibiting withdrawal : introverted

More from Merriam-Webster on withdrawn

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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