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.
Fashion and techno music are the chief interests of the surviving members, one of whom dreams of Bottega Veneta loafers floating in the sky. David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 14 Feb. 2026 Keep your styling feeling fresh by breaking up the look with fuzzy cashmere scarves, rich leather loafers, or slick acetate sunglasses. Jake Henry Smith, Glamour, 14 Feb. 2026 The inaugural Prada uniform featured a black Prada blazer and matching dress pants, a crisp button-down shirt, and sleek Prada loafers. Tianwei Zhang, Footwear News, 12 Feb. 2026 Enter these sleek and incredibly functional Italian leather loafers. Claire Gallam, Travel + Leisure, 11 Feb. 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 15 Feb. 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

More from Merriam-Webster on loafer

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster