Aloof

/əˈluːf/

Meaning & Definition

adjective
Not friendly or forthcoming; cool and distant.
Despite being invited to join the conversation, she remained aloof and uninterested.
Emotionally detached; uninvolved.
His aloof demeanor made it hard for others to connect with him.
At a distance; physically or emotionally.
The cat watched us from a perch, seeming aloof and indifferent to our presence.

Etymology

Middle English 'a-loof' meaning at a distance or away.

Common Phrases and Expressions

stay aloof
to remain distant and uninvolved in a situation.
aloof smile
a smile that is polite but lacks warmth or engagement.
aloof behavior
conduct that is distant and unsociable.

Related Words

detached
emotionally disconnected or disengaged.
reserved
slow to reveal emotions or opinions.
indifferent
having no particular interest or concern.

Slang Meanings

Playing hard to get.
She was acting aloof to keep him interested.
Being standoffish.
Don't be so aloof; join in the conversation!