loafer

noun

loaf·​er ˈlō-fər How to pronounce loafer (audio)
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.
From there, Zendaya finished off the look with sock-less brown loafers and a beige silk scarf fastened around her carryall tote, once again combining major summer and fall 2025 trends. Emily Tannenbaum, Glamour, 8 Aug. 2025 Her director-mode look included a charming lace tank top, stylish loafers, and brown wide-leg pants that are primed for fall. Clara McMahon, People.com, 3 Aug. 2025 Simply pair them with flats and a hardworking tote bag now—then style with loafers or knee-high boots come fall. Kristina Rutkowski, Vogue, 30 July 2025 Lucky for you—and your feet—Dr. Scholl’s is having a huge Amazon sale right now on versatile walking shoes, slip-on loafers, and vacation-worthy sandals. Olivia Young, Travel + Leisure, 12 July 2025 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 19 Aug. 2025.

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
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