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• withdrawn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 stereotype of an introverted software developer, siloed in an office far removed from the rest of the organization, will become a thing of the past. — Alberto Lugo, Forbes.com, 23 Sep. 2026

Whether one is introverted or not, there’s also the issue of having to hear every sound going on throughout the house. — Sarah Lyon, Southern Living, 23 Sep. 2026

Behavioral assessments help reveal how individual traits — such as whether a person is more introverted or extroverted, decisive or collaborative — align with other team members. — Karla Vallecillo, Hartford Courant, 18 Sep. 2026

Nick is more extroverted, more kind of outwardly in your face, whereas Sam’s a little introverted. — Rosy Cordero, Deadline, 10 Sep. 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