introverted

1 of 2

adjective

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

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Adjective

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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
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.
Adjective
The season will focus on the introverted Francesca Bridgerton (Hannah Dodd) and Michaela Stirling (Masali Baduza). — Peter White, Deadline, 25 Aug. 2026 Calhoun describes himself as introverted and initially hesitant about events filled with strangers. — Kansas City Star, 24 Aug. 2026 So the archetype of an uncharismatic leader is not necessarily someone unlikeable, introverted, socially incompetent or ineffective. — Tomas Chamorro-Premuzic, Forbes.com, 18 Aug. 2026 Some speak disparagingly about Murray’s introverted nature, and others prefer not to ding him. — Alec Lewis, New York Times, 28 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for introverted

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of introverted was in 1657

Rhymes for introverted

See All Rhymes for introverted

Browse Nearby Words

introvert
introverted
introvertish
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Cite this Entry

“Introverted.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/introverted. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Medical Definition

introverted

adjective
in·​tro·​vert·​ed ˈin-trə-ˌvərt-əd How to pronounce introverted (audio)
variants also introvert
ˈin-trə-ˌvərt 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 compare extroverted
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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