louche

adjective

ˈlüsh 

: not reputable or decent

Did you know?

Louche ultimately comes from the Latin word luscus, meaning "blind in one eye" or "having poor sight." This Latin term gave rise to the French louche, meaning "squinting" or "cross-eyed." The French gave their term a figurative sense as well, taking that squinty look to mean "shady" or "devious." English speakers didn't see the need for the sight-impaired uses when they borrowed the term in the 19th century, but they kept the figurative one. The word is still quite visible today and is used to describe both people and things of questionable repute.

Synonyms of louche

• notorious
• infamous
• shady
• criminal
• immoral

Examples of louche in a Sentence

it was a seedy neighborhood of louche nightclubs

Recent Examples on the Web

Elsewhere, there have been oversized knits, louche trousers, baseball caps, and all manner of unexpected color combinations. — Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 4 Nov. 2026

If a suit traditionally signals conformity and respectability, corduroy gives it a louche edge. — John Vorwald, Robb Report, 10 Oct. 2026

The parents are louche, disinterested in their kids. — Literary Hub, 18 June 2026

Zegna came to Malibu to make entreaties to the American fashion market with its colorful, louche new wares. — Dave Schilling contributing follow, Los Angeles Times, 9 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

French, literally, cross-eyed, squint-eyed, from Latin luscus blind in one eye

First Known Use

1819, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for louche

• douche
• touche
• whoosh
• barouche
• cartouche