retiring

[ ri-tahyuhr-ing ]

adjective

1. that retires.
2. withdrawing from contact with others; reserved; shy.

   Synonyms: timid, bashful, diffident

retiring

/ rɪˈtaɪərɪŋ /

adjective

1. shunning contact with others; shy; reserved

Derived Forms

• reˈtiringly, adverb

Other Words From

• re·tiring·ly adverb
• re·tiring·ness noun
• nonre·tiring adjective
• unre·tiring adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of retiring¹

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

Example Sentences

There are fewer signs, though, that the other four non-retiring moderates might be vulnerable in a primary.

From FiveThirtyEight

I was thinking about retiring from modeling, but spending that time with them rekindled that bug.

From The Daily Beast

He had been a Union carpenter for 30 years before retiring and devoting himself to nature photography.

From The Daily Beast

That said, this particularly retiring writer has received a poisonous gift from the Nobel committee.

From The Daily Beast

Pope Francis said he would definitely consider stepping down, saying his predecessor has opened the door to retiring.

From The Daily Beast

Maupin is running to replace retiring Rep. Ed Pastor in the August 26 primary.

From The Daily Beast

There are some folk in this country, you know, who manifest a very retiring disposition at times.

From Project Gutenberg

And, incidentally, to encourage retiring and diffident lady interviewers.

From Project Gutenberg

Bruce probably kept him under observation, retiring before him beyond the Forth, and not attempting to bar his progress to Perth.

From Project Gutenberg

Now, there cant be anything much more retiring than the turtleor me.

From Project Gutenberg

In his fits of resentful sullenness, he hinted an intention of retiring from the Court.

From Project Gutenberg