introvert

[ noun adjective in-truh-vurt; verb in-truh-vurt ]

noun

1. a person who prefers calm environments, limits social engagement, or embraces a greater than average preference for solitude.
2. Psychology. a person characterized by concern primarily with their own thoughts and feelings. Compare extrovert ( def 2 ).
3. Zoology. a part that is or can be introverted, or turned in on itself.

adjective

1. having a disposition that is taxed by social engagement and energized by calm environments, resulting in the preference for quiet solitude.
2. Psychology. marked by introversion.

verb (used with object)

1. to turn inward:

   to introvert one's anger.

2. Psychology. to direct (the mind, one's interest, etc.) partly to things within the self.
3. Anatomy, Zoology. to turn (a hollow, cylindrical structure) in on itself; invaginate.

introvert

noun

1. psychol a person prone to introversion

adjective

1. Alsointroverted characterized by introversion

verb

1. tr pathol to turn (a hollow organ or part) inside out

introvert

1. A term introduced by the psychologist Carl Jung to describe a person whose motives and actions are directed inward. Introverts tend to be preoccupied with their own thoughts and feelings and minimize their contact with other people. ( Compare extrovert .)

Other Words From

• non·in·tro·vert·ed adjective
• non·in·tro·vert·ed·ly adverb
• non·in·tro·vert·ed·ness noun
• un·in·tro·vert·ed adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of introvert¹

First recorded in 1660–70; intro- + (in)vert

Word History and Origins

Origin of introvert¹

C17: see intro- , invert

Synonym Study

Many people mistake shy and introverted as synonyms. The observable behaviors of introverts and shy people are similar; both personalities are characterized by a quiet demeanor and subdued social engagement. However, shyness is associated with timidity and social anxiety. In contrast, introversion is characterized by a lack of interest in interpersonal engagement and a limited endurance for social drama. The distinct motivations of introverted or shy people to act in a retiring manner are as defining as the observable contrast between introverts and extroverts.

Example Sentences

I am a writer and an introvert who kind of enjoyed having an excuse to stay home all the time.

From Los Angeles Times

He was the home-schooled introvert who could complete five hours of push-ups a day from the age of five - and there was little time for friendship or socialising.

From BBC

So I put the introvert next to the extrovert.

From Los Angeles Times

I am a writer and an introvert who kind of enjoyed having an excuse to stay home all the time.

From Los Angeles Times

“I think that’s when I discovered that I’m actually an introvert,” she says of the yearlong recording process.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• observer