loafer

noun

loaf·​er ˈlō-fər 

1

: one that loafs : idler

2

: a low step-in shoe

Synonyms of loafer

• slug
• drone
• bum
• snail
• idler
• slouch
• sluggard
• layabout
• deadbeat

Examples of loafer in a Sentence

an incorrigible loafer who never accomplished anything

Recent Examples on the Web

Rather than remaining solely fixating on loafers, the releases are evolving with mash-up models like mary jane sneakers and Kith’s fusion of the Clarks Wallabee with Adidas technology. —Riley Jones, Footwear News, 16 Dec. 2025

Crafted in one of winter's hottest textures, the rich, deep red suede instantly elevates the timeless loafer silhouette while remaining wearable. —Julia Morlino, Travel + Leisure, 15 Dec. 2025

Gwyneth Paltrow also wore loafers in Europe back in September, while Amanda Seyfried slipped some on for an event last month. —Alyssa Grabinski, PEOPLE, 10 Dec. 2025

As indicated by some of our favorite ensembles below, white pants will pair easily with the rest of your cold-weather wardrobe, like cozy wool coats, rugged combat boots, and lug-sole loafers. —Christina Holevas, Vogue, 9 Dec. 2025

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

Phrases Containing loafer

• penny loafer

Rhymes for loafer

• gopher

Kids Definition

loafer

noun

loaf·​er ˈlō-fər 

1

: a person who loafs

2

: a low shoe with no laces