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
• lazybones

Examples of loafer in a Sentence

an incorrigible loafer who never accomplished anything

Recent Examples on the Web

This now-$40 dainty loafer has a softer, streamlined silhouette that provides a nice alternative to ballet flats. — Reece Andavolgyi, InStyle, 6 Sep. 2026

After the premiere, Waterhouse slipped out of her red carpet heels and into sensible loafers before the journey to the afterparty. — Chris Murphy, Vanity Fair, 6 Sep. 2026

The actress is partial to loafers, pumps, sandals, and, on occasion, athletic sneakers. — Amina Ayoud, Footwear News, 5 Sep. 2026

Amazon’s Deals section is overflowing with massive markdowns on snappy loafers from Skechers, Frye, LifeStride, Aerosoles, and other top brands. — Sian Babish, PEOPLE, 5 Sep. 2026

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