Aloof - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Definition:
Emotionally distant or uninvolved; not friendly or forthcoming.
Synonyms:
Distant, detached, reserved, indifferent, remote
Part of Speech:
Adjective, adverb
Antonyms:
Friendly, approachable, engaged
Common Collocations:
Stay aloof, remain aloof, seem aloof, appear aloof, keep aloof
Derivatives:
Aloofness, aloofly
Usage Tips:
Use "aloof" to describe someone who avoids emotional connection or seems uninterested in others.
Common Phrases:
Keep one's distance, stand aloof from, hold oneself aloof
Etymology:
Originates from Old English "on lūf," meaning "in the air" or "above." Later influenced by Dutch "loef," meaning "windward."
Examples:
- 1. She remained aloof during the party.
- 2. His aloof demeanor made him hard to approach.
- 3. The cat sat aloof on the windowsill.
- 4. Don’t be so aloof—join the conversation!