Withdraw – Definition, Meaning and Synonyms

Definition of Withdrawn (adjective)

Withdrawn is an adjective that describes someone who is shy, reserved, or emotionally detached. It often implies a tendency to avoid social interaction or to retreat inwardly, focusing on one’s own thoughts or feelings.

Examples

• She became withdrawn after losing her closest friend.
• His withdrawn nature made it hard to connect with him.
• The child’s withdrawn behaviour worried his teachers deeply.
• After the argument, she grew quiet and withdrawn.
• He remained withdrawn throughout the entire family gathering.
• Her withdrawn attitude suggested she was hiding something.
• The patient’s withdrawn state concerned the mental health experts.
• The withdrawn artist rarely showcased his work publicly.

Meaning

• Shy
• Reserved
• Introverted

Pronunciation

• UK: /wɪðˈdrɔːn/ (with-DRAWN)
• US: /wɪðˈdrɔn/ (with-DRAWN)

Synonyms

• Reserved
• Introverted
• Timid
• Shy
• Reticent
• Unsociable
• Reclusive
• Quiet
• Detached
• Solitary
• Aloof
• Disengaged
• Uncommunicative
• Silent
• Pensive

Usage Tips for Withdrawn

• Use to describe someone avoiding social contact or interaction.
• Often implies emotional detachment or introspection.
• Best used when referring to behaviour rather than appearance.
• It Can indicate shyness, sadness, or inner focus.
• Avoid using it interchangeably with “shy” in overly casual contexts.

Origin

Withdrawn (1500-1600):

Wicked derived from the Old English withdrawen, which means to pull back or retreat. It combines with and drawn.

Similar Words to Withdrawn

• Reserved
• Reclusive
• Timid
• Shy
• Reticent
• Introverted
• Aloof
• Quiet
• Solitary
• Detached

FAQs

Q: What is the meaning of withdrawn in Urdu?

Ans: In Urdu, withdrawn means الگ تھلگ or گوشہ نشین.

Q: How do we use withdrawn in a sentence?

Ans: After the traumatic event, he became withdrawn, refusing to talk to anyone.

Q: What’s the difference between withdrawn and shy?

Ans: Withdrawn emphasizes emotional detachment whereas shyness suggests nervousness or timidity.