aloof

adjective

ə-ˈlüf How to pronounce aloof (audio)
Definition of aloofnext
as in distant
having or showing a lack of friendliness or interest in others the new kid was really not so aloof as we thought him at first, just painfully shy

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective aloof contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of aloof are detached, disinterested, incurious, indifferent, and unconcerned. While all these words mean "not showing or feeling interest," aloof suggests a cool reserve arising from a sense of superiority or disdain for inferiors or from shyness.

aloof from his coworkers

When might detached be a better fit than aloof?

The meanings of detached and aloof largely overlap; however, detached implies an objective attitude achieved through absence of prejudice or selfishness.

observed family gatherings with detached amusement

When is disinterested a more appropriate choice than aloof?

Although the words disinterested and aloof have much in common, disinterested implies a circumstantial freedom from concern for personal or especially financial advantage that enables one to judge or advise without bias.

judged by a panel of disinterested observers

In what contexts can incurious take the place of aloof?

The words incurious and aloof are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, incurious implies an inability to take a normal interest due to dullness of mind or to self-centeredness.

incurious about the world

When could indifferent be used to replace aloof?

While in some cases nearly identical to aloof, indifferent implies neutrality of attitude from lack of inclination, preference, or prejudice.

indifferent to the dictates of fashion

When is it sensible to use unconcerned instead of aloof?

The synonyms unconcerned and aloof are sometimes interchangeable, but unconcerned suggests a lack of sensitivity or regard for others' needs or troubles.

unconcerned about the homeless

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of aloof Hayk, a withdrawn and aloof child, lives on a farm with his aunt Narine and gets mocked and called strange by others. —Georg Szalai, HollywoodReporter, 4 June 2025 Cats’ reputation for being aloof and truly not caring about their owners doesn’t really tell the whole story. —Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 28 May 2025 Amid uncertainty over the region's direction, Arab states are eager to assert leadership and welcome checks on Iranian influence while still standing aloof from Israel and critical of its actions. —Amira El-Fekki‎, MSNBC Newsweek, 24 June 2025 Again, audiences remained aloof. Undaunted, Jeffreys continued issuing new work through 2017 with 14 Steps to Harlem. —Jim Farber, Rolling Stone, 5 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for aloof
Recent Examples of Synonyms for aloof
  1. distant
  2. detached
  3. cold
  4. cool
Adjective
  • Advertisement Still, his father remained remote and distant.
    — Olivia B. Waxman, Time, 18 July 2025
  • Lyricism as the default measure of talent feels like a distant memory.
    — Andre Gee, Rolling Stone, 17 July 2025
Definition of distant
Adjective
  • White Lake Township Chief of Police Daniel Keller said in a news release the homeowner was alerted through his video surveillance system that seven individuals had broken into his detached garage.
    — Mike Stunson July 10, Kansas City Star, 10 July 2025
  • The house features five bedrooms and one bathrooms. 5. $2.1 million, single-family residence in the 6100 block of Contra Costa Road The sale of the detached house in the 6100 block of Contra Costa Road in Oakland has been finalized.
    — Bay Area Home Report, Mercury News, 2 July 2025
Definition of detached
Adjective
  • For evening or colder climates, go with the Parallel Pant.
    — Rebecca Deurlein, Forbes.com, 15 July 2025
  • Everyone’s temperature preferences differ—some sleep hot, others cold.
    — Alyssa Hui-Anderson, Verywell Health, 15 July 2025
Definition of cold
Adjective
  • Here are eight satin pants that will keep you cool yet elevated this summer, starting at $15.
    — Terri Peters, Parents, 15 July 2025
  • Get creative and branch out Despite the blazing sun, there are plenty of things to do around the Valley this summer that'll keep you cool and entertained.
    — Olivia Rose, AZCentral.com, 15 July 2025
Definition of cool

Browse Nearby Words

along with
aloof
aloofly
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Cite this Entry

“Aloof.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/aloof. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

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Nglish: Translation of aloof for Spanish Speakers

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