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.
Finding the best basketball shoes for wide feet is a struggle that extends beyond this footwear category and into the realm of high heels, walking shoes, loafers, sandals, and flats. Amina Ayoud, Footwear News, 22 May 2026 Wear it casually with jeans and sneakers on the weekend, or dress it up for work with trousers and sleek loafers. Jamie Allison Sanders, PEOPLE, 22 May 2026 Make the jeans completely office-appropriate with a breezy button-down and sleek loafers—and feel free to throw on a blazer or light cardigan to really seal the deal. Kelsey Stewart, Glamour, 20 May 2026 Travel-ready loafers for more than half off—add to cart. Michelle Baricevic, Travel + Leisure, 19 May 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 26 May. 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

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