not friendly or forthcoming; cool and distant, conspicuously uninvolved and uninterested, typically through distaste

keep aloof, stand aloof, put someone off aloof

Formal and Informal Expressions of aloof

In different contexts, you can replace 'aloof' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'distant, detached, unapproachable' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'cold, standoffish, snobbish' is a commonplace synonym.

aloof: Explore its Definition & Usage

aloof Definition

1not friendly or forthcoming; cool and distant
2conspicuously uninvolved and uninterested, typically through distaste

Using aloof: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "aloof" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
He stood aloof from the group, watching them with a critical eye.
Example
She remained aloof from the political debate, not wanting to get involved.
Example
The new boss was aloof and didn't make an effort to get to know his employees.

aloof Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for aloof

Antonyms for aloof

Phrases with aloof

keep aloof
stay away from others or avoid getting involved in something
Example
She decided to keep aloof from the drama at work.
stand aloof
remain distant or uninvolved, often due to disapproval or dislike
Example
He stood aloof from the party, not wanting to socialize with people he didn't know.
put someone off aloof
cause someone to feel distant or uninterested
Example
His cold demeanor put her off aloof, and she didn't want to talk to him anymore.

Origins of aloof

from Middle English 'aloof' meaning 'away from'

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Summary: aloof in Brief

'Aloof' [əˈluːf] is an adjective used to describe someone who is not friendly or forthcoming, often appearing cool and distant. It can also refer to someone who is conspicuously uninvolved and uninterested, typically through distaste. Examples include 'He stood aloof from the group, watching them with a critical eye.' and 'The new boss was aloof and didn't make an effort to get to know his employees.' Phrases like 'keep aloof' and 'put someone off aloof' denote staying away from others or causing someone to feel distant or uninterested.