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.
Add boots and a leather jacket for dinner, throw on a cardigan and flats for the office, or keep it simple with loafers for a business lunch. Rosie Marder, Travel + Leisure, 3 Sep. 2025 Don’t forget the statement Fair Isle from Favorite Daughter to pair with pleated skirts and leather loafers all season long. Kristina Rutkowski, Glamour, 3 Sep. 2025 The overall men’s silhouette is more refined yet softer, from cocoon coats to soft leather slippers and loafers. Jean E. Palmieri, Footwear News, 2 Sep. 2025 No superheroes, just Benedict Cumberbatch trading his Doctor Strange cape for some loafers and some play-bickering with Olivia Colman. Savannah Salazar, Vulture, 30 Aug. 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 10 Sep. 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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