Extrovert – Definition, Meaning & Use In A Sentence

Word definitions are a common phenomenon in every language, which promotes cohesion and comprehension. These definitions function as bridges between many cultures, languages, and perspectives. Definitions provide a common ground for understanding in interpersonal interactions. This article will examine the spelling and definition of the word “extrovert” and delve into its background and its significance.

Use of “extrovert” in a sentence

In English, the word “extrovert” operates grammatically as a noun and adjective. Extroversion is a central concept in psychology, especially in personality psychology, where it is considered one of the core traits that make up the human personality.

Essentially, the terms “extroversion” and “introversion” were created to explain how people use different attitudes to direct their energy. An extrovert may have an outgoing personality and feel comfortable and even excited in group settings. An extrovert may be characterized as a “people person” and has a wide range of friends to prove it.

“Extrovert” as a noun

As a noun, “extrovert” refers to a person who is outgoing and energized by interacting with others. They tend to be more comfortable in social settings and often enjoy being the center of attention.

“Extrovert” as an adjective

As an adjective, “extrovert” describes characteristics that are associated with extroversion. It can be used to describe things that are outgoing, sociable, or oriented toward external stimuli.

How to spell “extrovert” correctly

The word “extrovert” is sometimes spelled as “extravert,” and surprisingly, this is correct as well. This term entered English usage in the early 20th century, deriving from the Latin word “extra-,” coined by the renowned Swiss psychologist Carl Gustav Jung. In all his works, Jung has talked about “extraverted” and “extraversion.” Essentially, “extro-” is a variant of the Latin “extra-.” The word itself is derived from two Latin components:

• “Extra-” — meaning “outside”
• “Vertere” — meaning “to turn”

“Extrovert” literally translates to “turned outward.”

So where does the spelling “extrovert” come from? In her 1918 psycho-analytic study, psychologist Dr. Phyllis Blanchard wrote down Jung’s hypothesis of the two psychological types as “introvert” and “extrovert,” where she not only changed the spelling but also the definition.

According to the Oxford English Dictionary, the original spelling “extravert” is rare in general use, and is now found solely in technical use in psychology.

Additionally to the adjective “extrovert”, there is another adjective closely related to it. “Extroverted” is an adjective derived from the noun “extrovert,” which is used to describe behaviour, attitudes, or actions that are characteristics of extroverts.

Synonyms for “extrovert”

If you feel unsure about the correct spelling of “extrovert/extravert” in sentences, it may be helpful to use synonyms for it. This way you can grasp a thorough understanding of it and apply the term correctly.

Simultaneously, you can avoid repetition and redundancy in your academic work. The table below illustrates alternative words for “extrovert” and respective examples of how to use them properly in sentences.