interpersonal
Americanadjective
-
of or pertaining to the relations between persons.
As a leader goes higher in an organization, commonly their technical skills are called upon less and less, while their interpersonal skills become more important.
-
existing or occurring between persons.
It is unlikely that someone with paranoia will thrive in interpersonal relationships.
She is trained and certified in the treatment of emotional trauma resulting from interpersonal violence.
adjective
Other Word Forms
Derived Forms
Etymology
Origin of interpersonal
Compare meaning
How does interpersonal compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:
Explanation
Interpersonal refers to something involving, or occurring among several people. Interpersonal skills refer to our ability to get along with others. The adjective interpersonal really only has one meaning, so when you hear this word, you know you're hearing about interactions between people. Sometimes corporations find it useful to train their employees on any interpersonal skills they may be lacking, especially if they have a group of really socially awkward people, because it really does make the work environment a lot easier if your coworkers all get along with one another.
Vocabulary lists containing interpersonal
Dear Martin
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Finally Heard
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"CLEP Principles of Management," Vocabulary from Chapter 2
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The maturity it takes to confront big interpersonal problems is rare - but it's also a hallmark of Le Sserafim's take on K-pop, which mixes serious self-awareness with playful absurdity.
From BBC • Jun. 4, 2026
“The study finds that financial fulfillment is related to positive life outcomes, including higher life satisfaction, better self-reported mental and physical health, and stronger interpersonal and community connections,” the report said.
From MarketWatch • Jun. 3, 2026
“As AI handles background tasks, the core functions of these technology roles are becoming more interpersonal and human-focused,” she adds.
From The Wall Street Journal • May 13, 2026
The tensions are interpersonal, with arguments at family gatherings and friendships strained or shattered.
From Los Angeles Times • May 1, 2026
"Intergroup and interpersonal living"? I really do want that...
From "Dear Martin" by Nic Stone
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
