loaf 1 of 2

loaf

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noun

British slang

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb loaf differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of loaf are idle, laze, loll, and lounge. While all these words mean "to spend time doing nothing," loaf suggests either resting or wandering about as though there were nothing to do.

she does her work and then loafs the rest of the day

When is idle a more appropriate choice than loaf?

The words idle and loaf can be used in similar contexts, but idle may be used in reference to persons that move lazily or without purpose.

idled the day away

Where would laze be a reasonable alternative to loaf?

Although the words laze and loaf have much in common, laze usually implies the relaxation of a busy person enjoying a vacation or moments of leisure.

lazed about between appointments

When can loll be used instead of loaf?

The words loll and loaf are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, loll also carries an implication of a posture similar to that of lounge, but places greater stress upon an indolent or relaxed attitude.

lolling on the couch

When could lounge be used to replace loaf?

The meanings of lounge and loaf largely overlap; however, lounge, though occasionally used as equal to idle or loaf, typically conveys an additional implication of resting or reclining against a support or of physical comfort and ease in relaxation.

he lounged against the wall

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of loaf
Verb
The dough loaves would then be sent to its cafés, where they would be proofed and baked in the morning. Hannah Hudnall, IndyStar, 29 July 2025 Just a saucepan, a bowl and a loaf pan or other suitable freezer-safe container. arkansasonline.com, 8 July 2025
Noun
With so much torque available anywhere between 2500 and 5000 rpm, this car is quick even when loafing along. Mark Ewing, Forbes, 30 Dec. 2024 Some are couch-potato cancers, mostly just loafing around. Maya Singer, Vogue, 23 July 2024 See All Example Sentences for loaf
Recent Examples of Synonyms for loaf
Verb
  • Sandler, because of that punim of his, is good at playing bummed, but this scene demanded more shading — anger, charm, cockiness.
    Jesse David Fox, Vulture, 30 July 2025
  • But, yeah, I was bummed to kind of put the team in that spot.
    Doug Padilla, Oc Register, 25 July 2025
Noun
  • Both 28-year-old boxers underwent operations for subdural haematoma, or bleeding inside the skull, the reports said.
    Reuters, NBC news, 11 Aug. 2025
  • There’s Plunderer’s Punch (black spiced rum, blackberry, lime and vanilla) in souvenir pirate skull mug for $46.
    Dewayne Bevil, The Orlando Sentinel, 5 Aug. 2025
Verb
  • Following a procession in his hometown in Birmingham, England, he was laid to rest on the estate of his home in Buckinghamshire on July 31.
    Thomas Smith, Billboard, 7 Aug. 2025
  • Whether it’s outfitted with a bookshelf full of beloved paperbacks, a comfy chaise lounge, or a dedicated art table, the goal is the same: create a space that fosters rest, creativity, and quiet—no notifications.
    Cameron Beall, Southern Living, 6 Aug. 2025
Noun
  • Men were affected more than women, particularly in the gray matter.
    New Atlas, New Atlas, 29 July 2025
  • Brain scans of people who spend time in nature show that their prefrontal cortex has more gray matter and a stronger ability to think clearly and self-regulate.
    Bryan Robinson, Forbes, 6 Dec. 2024
Verb
  • This matching set has your back for everything from lounging and running errands to exhausting travel days.
    Mia Huelsbeck, People.com, 10 Aug. 2025
  • The cafe serves coffee drinks, sandwiches and other pastries to hungry customers lounging in its large outdoor patio.
    Camila Pedrosa, Sacbee.com, 9 Aug. 2025
Noun
  • What solidified Wash’s theme was actually a leitmotif for moments of discovery and Wash’s incredible intellect.
    Sarah Shachat, IndieWire, 25 July 2025
  • Douglass unleashed his vast intellect, his powerful imagery and an accurate rendering of the Holy Scriptures.
    Chicago Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 17 July 2025
Verb
  • This is something Kang was championing — badass characters who also veg out on the couch without makeup on.
    Nicole Fell, HollywoodReporter, 6 Aug. 2025
  • And while humans tend to veg out on the couch, canines typically only watch for short periods.
    Liz O'Connell, MSNBC Newsweek, 9 May 2025
Noun
  • But typically, the Russian leader – a former intelligence officer with the Soviet Union’s security service, the KGB – uses translators to avoid speaking in English during diplomatic conversations.
    Katharina Krebs, CNN Money, 16 Aug. 2025
  • The Trump administration paused intelligence sharing and weapons shipments to Ukraine after the incident.
    Francesca Chambers, USA Today, 16 Aug. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Loaf.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/loaf. Accessed 19 Aug. 2025.

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