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.
For men, the Salon Loafer is a distinctly Chavarria interpretation of a 1970s Cuban-heel loafer, while the Antonio Boot is a slim, refined silhouette finished with a Cuban heel. Stephen Garner, Footwear News, 23 Jan. 2026 Throw on a pair of loafers and a brooch for good measure. Andrea Zendejas, Vogue, 22 Jan. 2026 The slip-on loafer style is comfortable right out of the box and has a luxe suede exterior. Rachel Trujillo, PEOPLE, 21 Jan. 2026 Skepta leaned into the timeless male uniform—a black sweater layered over a white-collared shirt, baggy jeans, and loafers—proving that classics endure for a reason. Larry Stansbury, Essence, 21 Jan. 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 25 Jan. 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

More from Merriam-Webster on loafer

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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