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

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.
Wear them to work with a pair of cute loafers and a spring blouse, or dress them down with a tee and your favorite sneaks for a comfy-casual look. Madeline Merinuk, PEOPLE, 3 Apr. 2026 There’s a matching harness with gold hardware layered over a white shirt paired with dark green loafers and accessories inspired by the jewelry and watch worn at the event. Dewayne Bevil, The Orlando Sentinel, 2 Apr. 2026 Especially in the darker shades, these pants can totally pass as office-wear with a button-down shirt and loafers. Eden Lichterman, InStyle, 2 Apr. 2026 There are sneaker-heads, those with an enviable collection of loafers or flats, and others (like me) who love to walk around in a clog. Alaina Chou, Bon Appetit Magazine, 1 Apr. 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Loafer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/loafer. Accessed 5 Apr. 2026.

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

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