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

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

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 will be selling my law practice for $2.5 million in two years, and we expect to save about $1 million more before retiring.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 15, 2026

Another key member of the Kings championship teams, Anze Kopitar, also is retiring after this season, following 20 years in the NHL, all with L.A.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 13, 2026

But you could use them as a “bridge” to Social Security if you’ll be retiring within 10 years, says David Enna, editor of Tipswatch.com.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 10, 2026

A DIY-fanatic who became bored after retiring has come up with an unusual way of filling his days - creating supersized models of everyday household items.

From BBC • Apr. 9, 2026

She knew he was retiring from the police force in September.

From "A Tree Grows in Brooklyn" by Betty Smith