aloof

[uh-loof]

adverb

1. at a distance, especially in feeling or interest; apart.

   They always stood aloof from their classmates.

   Antonyms: near

adjective

1. reserved or reticent; indifferent; disinterested.

   Because of his shyness, he had the reputation of being aloof.

   Synonyms: disdainful, haughty, snobbish, standoffish, distant, detached, cool
   Antonyms: open, warm, outgoing, gregarious

aloof

/ əˈluːf /

adjective

1. distant, unsympathetic, or supercilious in manner, attitude, or feeling

Other Word Forms

• aloofly adverb
• aloofness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of aloof¹

First recorded in 1525–35; a- ¹ + loof luff

Word History and Origins

Origin of aloof¹

C16: from _a- ¹ + loof, a variant of _luff

Example Sentences

The big news in recent decades of Shakespeare studies is that the Bard was not as aloof as his statue’s height and location would lead you to believe.

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The absence of policy initiatives and a record-setting government shutdown lend the impression of an aloof and listless GOP.

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Yet, this is a character who hates pity and I can’t help but admire that Ramsay faces down today’s phonily upbeat and relatable motherhood discourse with this boogey-mom who keeps herself aloof.

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The interview painted a picture of an entitled royal who was aloof and arrogant.

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During that time, her role evolved from one-on-one advocate to legislative reformer, from shielding individual survivors from an aloof and demoralizing system to changing that system itself.

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Related Words

• detached 
• distant 
• haughty 
• indifferent 
• standoffish 
• unresponsive 
• unsympathetic