Aloof: meaning, pronunciation and examples
Aloof adjective. Cool and distant; not friendly or involved.
How to say it
uh-LOOF/əˈluːf/
2 syllables, stressed on the second (LOOF).
Aloof in a sentence
New in town, she seemed aloof, but she was simply shy.
The cat stayed aloof, watching the party from the top of the bookcase.
Similar and opposite
Similar:
- distant
- detached
- standoffish
- reserved
Opposite:
- friendly
- warm
Where aloof comes from
From a- and luff, a sailing word: steering into the wind, keeping clear of a dangerous shore.
Test yourself
Which word fills the gap?
The cat stayed _____, watching the party from the top of the bookcase.
- tenacious
- aloof
- loquacious
Show the answer
aloof: The cat stayed aloof, watching the party from the top of the bookcase.