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.
As for Saint Laurent, its iconic Le Loafer was a standout among shoppers searching for loafers. Dave Smith, Fortune, 11 Nov. 2025 The same shape has appeared across European royal wardrobes this year, from Queen Camilla’s beige buckle kitten heels during summer engagements to Kate Middleton’s beloved suede loafers featuring a smaller buckle detail. Maggie Clancy, Footwear News, 11 Nov. 2025 Vionic Women’s Uptown Loafer What is more of an autumnal fashion staple than a rich leather or suede loafer? Caroline Hughes, Travel + Leisure, 10 Nov. 2025 In addition to the different inseam options, these pants come in sizes ranging from 2 to 18, and each pair has a full-length design that’ll play well with flats, loafers, or boots. Rachel Trujillo, PEOPLE, 7 Nov. 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 16 Nov. 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
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!