extroverted
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /ˈɛkstrəvˌɜːtɪd/
US
- /ˈɛkstrəˌvɜrtɪd/
Description
- Outgoing
- sociable
- energetic
Being extroverted means often feeling more alive and engaged when you're around other people. Think of a sunflower: it turns toward the sun. A person with this kind of personality usually enjoys social situations, likes meeting new people, and often feels refreshed by group activities. Not everyone is like that; some people are more introverted and prefer quiet time alone to recharge. It's really about what gives you energy. You might describe a friendly party host as extroverted, or say that someone seems extroverted because they are relaxed and open with others.
The term "extroverted" describes a personality style marked by an outward focus and ease with other people. It sits on one end of a spectrum, with introversion on the other, and most people fall somewhere in between, showing traits of both. In general, people who are extroverted tend to gain energy from interaction, activity, and the world around them. A busy party may feel exciting rather than tiring, and group settings often help them feel engaged.
Historically, psychologist Carl Jung introduced the terms "introvert" and "extrovert," using them to describe the direction a person's mental energy seems to take. People who are extroverted are usually drawn more toward outside experiences, action, and contact with others. This can show up as enjoying conversation, feeling comfortable in social settings, and often liking shared activities more than long stretches of solitary work.
However, it's important to remember that "extroverted" does not simply mean loud or attention-seeking. A quiet person can still be extroverted if being with others helps them feel energized and involved. Some enjoy large gatherings, while others prefer one-on-one conversations or small groups. You might say a successful salesperson seems extroverted, or notice that an extroverted child quickly starts talking and making friends on the playground.
In modern psychology, extroversion is considered one of the "Big Five" personality traits, alongside openness, conscientiousness, agreeableness, and neuroticism. Understanding where you fall on this spectrum can help you better understand your own preferences, strengths, and the way you connect with the world around you. So if someone seems to come alive in company, enjoys reaching out to others, and feels at home in active social settings, "extroverted" may be the right word to describe them.
Examples
- 1
Social ease
My sister is very extroverted and makes friends quickly.
- 2
Childhood personality
Even as a child, he was more extroverted than the rest of us.
- 3
Public speaking
You don't have to be extroverted to enjoy public speaking.
- 4
Meetings
In meetings, she becomes more extroverted when she knows the topic well.
- 5
Personality fit
The role is ideal for someone with an extroverted personality.
- 6
Online persona
Online, he sounds bold and funny, but in person he's less extroverted.
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- extrovertedadjective