Introvert

/ˈɪntrəˌvɜrt/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A person who tends to turn inward psychologically; a person who is more focused on their own thoughts and feelings than on external things.

As an introvert, she often preferred reading to attending large parties.

A person who is shy or reserved.

He was an introvert who found social gatherings overwhelming.

In psychology, a person who gains energy from solitary activities rather than from socializing.

Many introverts recharge by spending time alone after a busy week.

verb

To turn one's attention inward.

He tends to introvert when faced with stressful situations, reflecting on his thoughts instead of engaging with others.

To cause to be introverted.

The new environment seemed to introvert her, making her less communicative than usual.

Late 19th century from Latin intro- 'within' + vertere 'to turn'.

social battery

The level of energy someone has for social interactions.

wallflower

A person who remains on the sidelines of social gatherings.

hermit

A person living in solitude, often used to describe extreme introversion.

extrovert

A person who is outgoing and sociable, gaining energy from social interactions.

ambivert

Someone who exhibits qualities of both introversion and extroversion.

The Quiet One

In our group, she's the quiet one who prefers reading to partying.

Homebody

After a long week, I'm such a homebody; I just want to stay in and relax.