retiring

American  

[ri-tahyuhr-ing] / rɪˈtaɪər ɪŋ /

adjective

1. that retires.

2. withdrawing from contact with others; reserved; shy.

   Synonyms:

   timid, bashful, diffident

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retiring British  

/ rɪˈtaɪərɪŋ /

adjective

1. shunning contact with others; shy; reserved

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Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

• retiringly
  adverb
• unretiring
  adjective
• nonretiring
  adjective
• retiringness
  noun

Etymology

Origin of retiring

First recorded in 1540–50; retire + -ing ²

Explanation

If you are a retiring person, you avoid being at the center of attention. You can often be found in the library and other quiet places, and if someone compliments you, you're likely to blush and change the subject. If you call someone retiring, it isn't necessarily clear whether you mean it as a compliment or something closer to a put-down. Usually, the word is used to describe someone who is shy or modest to a fault. But it can also be used to suggest that someone isn't arrogant, which is usually a good thing. And, of course, retiring can also refer to someone who stepped down from their last job and doesn't intend to work anymore.

Example Sentences

I just gave notice that I’m retiring at 60.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 9, 2026

Chase Herrell, Ben Cushnie and Andrew Johnson gave up just one run over six innings, with Johnson retiring the first eight batters he faced.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 5, 2026

Speaking to BBC News NI, she admitted that retiring after so many years felt quite strange, but said she had absolutely loved every minute of her time in the shop.

From BBC • May 31, 2026

That is unusual, said Sunita Lough, who was a longtime senior IRS official and oversaw enforcement before retiring in 2022.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 30, 2026

But although he became the most respected scientist of his time, Boyle retained his retiring, modest nature and declined many honours.

From "The Scientists" by John Gribbin