The Myers Briggs definitions are the foundation of one of the world’s most widely recognized personality frameworks — the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI). This psychological model helps people understand how they perceive the world, process information, and interact with others. By learning the definitions behind the MBTI, you can uncover valuable insights about your strengths, preferences, and communication style.

In this article, we’ll explain all the key Myers Briggs definitions, including the four main personality dimensions, the meaning of each letter, and how they combine to form the 16 personality types.

What Is the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator?

The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator was developed by Katharine Cook Briggs and her daughter Isabel Briggs Myers, based on the theories of Swiss psychologist Carl Jung. Their goal was to create a practical system that helps individuals understand themselves and others better. The MBTI identifies 16 personality types, each represented by a four-letter code (such as INTJ or ESFP), derived from four pairs of preferences.

The Myers Briggs definitions provide a universal language for discussing personality, behavior, and motivation in both personal and professional contexts.

The Four Myers Briggs Personality Dimensions

The Myers Briggs model is built around four key pairs of preferences — each describing a different way people engage with the world. Understanding these definitions is essential for interpreting MBTI personality types.

1. Extraversion (E) vs. Introversion (I)

This dimension defines where people draw their energy from.

  • Extraversion (E): People who gain energy from interaction, social settings, and external experiences. They tend to be talkative, enthusiastic, and action-oriented.
  • Introversion (I): Individuals who recharge through solitude, reflection, and internal focus. They are more reserved, thoughtful, and deliberate.

Myers Briggs definition: Extraverts focus on the outer world, while introverts focus on the inner world.

2. Sensing (S) vs. Intuition (N)

This scale shows how individuals gather and process information.

  • Sensing (S): Prefers concrete facts, practical details, and direct experiences. Sensors notice what is real and present.
  • Intuition (N): Focuses on ideas, patterns, and possibilities. Intuitives tend to think abstractly and look toward the future.

Myers Briggs definition: Sensors trust their five senses, while intuitives trust their insights and imagination.

3. Thinking (T) vs. Feeling (F)

This dimension explains how people make decisions.

  • Thinking (T): Bases decisions on objective logic, consistency, and fairness. Thinkers value truth and rational analysis.
  • Feeling (F): Prioritizes empathy, harmony, and personal values when deciding. Feelers are more attuned to the emotional impact of choices.

Myers Briggs definition: Thinkers focus on logic, while feelers focus on people and values.

4. Judging (J) vs. Perceiving (P)

This pair reflects how people prefer to organize their lives.

  • Judging (J): Prefers order, planning, and decision-making. Judgers like closure and structure.
  • Perceiving (P): Prefers flexibility, spontaneity, and keeping options open. Perceivers are adaptable and enjoy going with the flow.

Myers Briggs definition: Judgers prefer control and predictability, while perceivers embrace adaptability and exploration.

How the Myers Briggs Definitions Combine to Form 16 Personality Types

Each person’s MBTI type is represented by a combination of four letters — one from each pair of preferences. For example:

  • ISTJ = Introversion + Sensing + Thinking + Judging
  • ENFP = Extraversion + Intuition + Feeling + Perceiving
  • INTP = Introversion + Intuition + Thinking + Perceiving
  • ESFJ = Extraversion + Sensing + Feeling + Judging

These combinations define how each person interacts with others, solves problems, and approaches life. The Myers Briggs definitions serve as building blocks for understanding the deeper meaning behind each personality type.

Overview of the 16 Myers Briggs Personality Types

Below is a summary of all 16 personality types and their general characteristics:

Analysts

  • INTJ (The Architect): Strategic, independent, and visionary.
  • INTP (The Thinker): Curious, logical, and inventive.
  • ENTJ (The Commander): Bold, decisive, and leadership-driven.
  • ENTP (The Debater): Energetic, adaptable, and innovative.

Diplomats

  • INFJ (The Advocate): Idealistic, insightful, and empathetic.
  • INFP (The Mediator): Imaginative, compassionate, and value-driven.
  • ENFJ (The Protagonist): Charismatic, inspiring, and altruistic.
  • ENFP (The Campaigner): Enthusiastic, creative, and open-minded.

Sentinels

  • ISTJ (The Logistician): Dependable, organized, and detail-oriented.
  • ISFJ (The Defender): Loyal, warm, and protective.
  • ESTJ (The Executive): Practical, assertive, and responsible.
  • ESFJ (The Caregiver): Sociable, supportive, and nurturing.

Explorers

  • ISTP (The Virtuoso): Practical, analytical, and adaptable.
  • ISFP (The Adventurer): Artistic, sensitive, and independent.
  • ESTP (The Entrepreneur): Energetic, resourceful, and action-oriented.
  • ESFP (The Entertainer): Fun-loving, expressive, and spontaneous.

Why the Myers Briggs Definitions Matter

Understanding Myers Briggs definitions can enhance your self-awareness, relationships, and career success. Here’s why they’re valuable:

  • Self-awareness: Learn what motivates you, how you make decisions, and what environments you thrive in.
  • Better communication: Recognize how different types prefer to give and receive information.
  • Stronger relationships: Appreciate personality differences and build empathy for others’ perspectives.
  • Career growth: Discover roles that align with your natural strengths and values.
  • Personal development: Identify areas to grow beyond your dominant preferences.

How to Apply Myers Briggs Definitions in Real Life

Once you understand your MBTI type, you can use the Myers Briggs definitions to improve various areas of your life:

  • At work: Collaborate more effectively by recognizing coworkers’ communication and decision-making styles.
  • In relationships: Develop empathy by understanding your partner’s personality preferences.
  • In leadership: Adapt your management approach to fit the personalities of your team members.
  • In learning: Choose methods that align with your information-processing style (e.g., hands-on vs. conceptual).

Final Thoughts

The Myers Briggs definitions provide a simple yet powerful framework for understanding human behavior. By exploring these concepts, you gain clarity about your motivations, strengths, and communication patterns — and learn to appreciate the unique ways others see the world.

Whether you’re an INTJ strategist, an ENFP dreamer, or an ISFJ nurturer, understanding your personality type through the lens of the Myers Briggs definitions can lead to greater confidence, harmony, and personal growth.

Keywords: myers briggs definitions, MBTI, 16 personality types, personality theory, psychology, self-awareness, leadership development, personal growth.