noun

introversion

in-truh-VUR-zhuhn

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Introversion (noun) means a tendency to direct one's attention and energy inward, toward one's own thoughts and feelings rather than outward social activity. Example: “His introversion made large parties feel exhausting.”

noun

A tendency to direct one's attention and energy inward, toward one's own thoughts and feelings rather than outward social activity.

"His introversion made large parties feel exhausting."

"She has learned to see her introversion as a strength rather than a flaw."

"A degree of introversion is common among people who prefer quiet, focused work."

How to use introversion

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishIntroversion is a preference for one's own inner thoughts over constant outward social activity.

When to use it

Introversion is most often used in psychological or everyday discussion of personality.

Memory tip

Introversion describes where someone gets their energy from, not whether they are unfriendly.

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

extroversion → introspection →

Common pairings

a degree of introversion introversion and extroversion natural introversion signs of introversion

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

His _____ made large parties feel exhausting.

Etymology

Introversion comes from New Latin intrōversio, built from intrōvertere, meaning to turn inward. That verb combined the Latin intro, meaning within, with vertere, meaning to turn.

Origin: New Latin

Antonyms

extroversion

Related words

extroversion introspection

Rhymes for introversion

region ablation allusion emulsion ideation novation diffusion elocution extension oxidation perfusion selection

See all rhymes for introversion →

Frequently asked questions

What does introversion mean in psychology?

In psychology, introversion describes a personality orientation in which a person's attention and energy are directed more toward their own inner world than toward other people.

Is introversion the same as shyness?

No, introversion is about where a person naturally draws energy from, while shyness is about nervousness in social situations; the two often overlap but are not the same thing.

What is the opposite of introversion?

The opposite of introversion is extroversion, which describes an orientation toward other people and outward activity.

What is the meaning of introversion?

"introversion" (noun) means a tendency to direct one's attention and energy inward, toward one's own thoughts and feelings rather than outward social activity.

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