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.
While a proper selection of fall shoes should include boots, sneakers, and loafers, clogs have also earned their spot on the list of wardrobe staples. Rachel Trujillo, PEOPLE, 1 Oct. 2025 Sam Edelman Lucca Loafer A great loafer worn on the streets of the Brera is so very Milanese. Nneya Richards, Travel + Leisure, 1 Oct. 2025 And further out, the Nike Air Max Phenomena SWDC (Serena Williams Design Crew) sneaker loafer featuring a Pearl Pink/Black/Cool Gray colorway is slated for next year. Vicki M. Young, Footwear News, 30 Sep. 2025 The low is a fresh take on the classic Timberland boot, transformed into a loafer featuring the Telfar logo and available in both wheat and black. Essence, 29 Sep. 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 6 Oct. 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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