Definition

1. Noun:
   • (Psychology) An introverted disposition; concern with one's own thoughts and feelings: A personality trait characterized by a focus on internal mental processes, feelings, and ideas rather than on external social interaction.
   • (Biology/Anatomy) The folding in of an outer layer so as to form a pocket in the surface; the condition of being folded inward or sheathed: A process where a surface or layer folds or turns inward upon itself.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Psychology):
  • Her introversion makes large parties draining for her.
  • Introversion is often misunderstood as shyness, but it is more about where one draws energy.
• Noun (Biology):
  • The introversion of the cell layer is a critical step in the embryo's development.
  • The anatomical defect involved an introversion of the intestinal wall.

Advanced Usage

• In psychological typology: "Introversion" is a core dimension in personality models, such as Carl Jung's theory, contrasting with extraversion.
  • Jungian psychology places introversion and extraversion at the heart of personality types.
• In a metaphorical sense: Can describe a general inward turn or focus.
  • The country's political introversion followed a period of intense international conflict.

Variants and Related Words

• Introvert (n): A person characterized by introversion.
  • He is a classic introvert who recharges by spending time alone.
• Introvert (v): To turn inward or upon itself. (Less common)
  • Certain muscles can introvert a body part.
• Introverted (adj): Having the qualities of introversion.
  • She has a thoughtful and introverted nature.

Synonyms

• Inwardness: A focus on one's inner self or mental life.
• Internality: The state of being internal or inward.
• (For the biological sense) Invagination: The folding inward of a layer of tissue.

Antonyms

• Extraversion (also Extroversion): An outgoing, socially oriented disposition.
• Outwardness: A focus on the external world.

Related Phrases/Idioms

• "A tendency toward introversion": A common phrase describing this personality trait.
  • From a young age, he showed a clear tendency toward introversion.
• "Depth of introversion": Used to describe the degree or intensity of this characteristic.
  • The depth of her introversion allows for profound creative work.

Noun

1. (psychology) an introverted disposition; concern with one's own thoughts and feelings
2. the folding in of an outer layer so as to form a pocket in the surface
   • the invagination of the blastula
3. the condition of being folded inward or sheathed