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

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

Schwarzenegger arrived at the event, known as the Shoe Oscars, wearing Tommy Hilfiger’s classic smooth leather loafers with a glossy, shiny finish. —Karla Rodriguez, Footwear News, 2 Dec. 2025

These Skechers sneakers come in a white design that’s versatile and full of arch support, while these Vionic loafers boast sneaker-level comfort that helps align your posture and have a deeper heel cup for extra stability. —Rylee Johnston, Travel + Leisure, 1 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