Aloof

/əˈluːf/ · adverb

Meaning

At or from a distance, but within view, or at a small distance; apart; away..

Definitions by Sense

1. At or from a distance, but within view, or at a small distance; apart; away.
2. Without sympathy; unfavorably.
3. Reserved and remote; either physically or emotionally distant; standoffish.
4. (obsolete) Away from; clear of.

Example Sentences

Sisyphus also I saw, with unwelcomest taskage tormented, / Toilsomely hoisting aloof, unassisted, a ponderous round stone.

The noise approaches, tho' our palace stood Aloof from streets, encompass'd with a wood

Mother[…]considered that the exclusiveness of Peter's circle was due not to its distinction, but to the fact that it was an inner Babylon of prodigality and whoredom, from which every Kensingtonian held aloof, except on the conventional tip-and-run excursions in pursuit of shopping, tea and theatres.

But to open the Bible in this spirit — to take the Book as from the hand of God, and then to look at it aloof, and with caution, as if throughout it were illusory and enigmatical, is the worst of all impieties.

None may ever hear the speech of the poets of that city, to whom the gods have spoken. It stands a city aloof. There hath been no rumour of it—I alone have dreamed of it, and I may not be sure that my dreams are true.

Rivetus […] would fain work himself aloof these rocks and quicksands.

Synonyms for aloof

Antonyms for aloof

Related Words

Word Forms

• more aloof
• most aloof

Usage Notes

Choose a synonym only when it preserves the intended meaning, tone, and grammar of the full sentence.

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