Meaning & Definition of Aloof in English
Aloof
Not friendly or forthcoming; cool and distant.
Pronunciation:
/əˈluːf/Part of Speech:
adjectiveDetailed Definitions
Definition: Emotionally uninvolved or detached.
Example Sentence: She remained aloof throughout the meeting, not engaging in conversation.
Definition: At a distance, physically or emotionally; removed.
Example Sentence: His aloof demeanor made it hard for others to approach him.
Definition: Showing a lack of interest or concern.
Example Sentence: Despite the excitement around her, she remained aloof to the festivities.
Definition: Distant in manner; unsympathetic.
Example Sentence: The aloof attitude of the manager made employees feel undervalued.
Definition: Isolated or separated; detached.
Example Sentence: He lived an aloof existence, far from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Etymology
Origin: Middle English 'a-loof' meaning at a distance or away.
Synonyms
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.
Translations
- Spanish: distante
- French: distancé
- German: distanziert
- Russian: отстраненный
Related Words
- detached: emotionally disconnected or disengaged.
- reserved: slow to reveal emotions or opinions.
- indifferent: having no particular interest or concern.
Slang Meanings of aloof
Meaning: Playing hard to get.
Example Sentence: She was acting aloof to keep him interested.
Meaning: Being standoffish.
Example Sentence: Don't be so aloof; join in the conversation!