loafer

noun

loaf·​er ˈlō-fər How to pronounce loafer (audio)
Synonyms of loafernext
1
: one that loafs : idler
2
: a low step-in shoe

Synonyms of loafer

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Examples of loafer in a Sentence

an incorrigible loafer who never accomplished anything
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Shuffle over to Amazon to shop more loafer mules and stylishly bridge the gap between summer and fall. — Annie Blackman, InStyle, 9 Aug. 2026 Pair them with sneakers, flats, or loafers now and into fall. — Mia Huelsbeck, PEOPLE, 7 Aug. 2026 As for styling, cinch in the skirt with a luxe leather belt and finish with coordinating loafers. — Kelsey Stewart, Glamour, 6 Aug. 2026 Style them with a soft, dressy top, then add a pair of sneakers or loafers and a travel bag. — Caley Sturgill, Southern Living, 6 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for loafer

Word History

Etymology

perhaps short for landloafer, from German Landläufer tramp, from Land + Läufer runner

First Known Use

1830, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of loafer was in 1830

Phrases Containing loafer

Rhymes for loafer

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Browse Nearby Words

loaf cheese
loafer
loaferish
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Cite this Entry

“Loafer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/loafer. Accessed 12 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

loafer

noun
loaf·​er ˈlō-fər How to pronounce loafer (audio)
1
: a person who loafs
2
: a low shoe with no laces

More from Merriam-Webster on loafer

Nglish: Translation of loafer for Spanish Speakers

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