Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective aloof contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of aloof are detached, disinterested, incurious, indifferent, and unconcerned. While all these words mean "not showing or feeling interest," aloof suggests a cool reserve arising from a sense of superiority or disdain for inferiors or from shyness.

aloof from his coworkers

When might detached be a better fit than aloof?

The meanings of detached and aloof largely overlap; however, detached implies an objective attitude achieved through absence of prejudice or selfishness.

observed family gatherings with detached amusement

When is disinterested a more appropriate choice than aloof?

Although the words disinterested and aloof have much in common, disinterested implies a circumstantial freedom from concern for personal or especially financial advantage that enables one to judge or advise without bias.

judged by a panel of disinterested observers

In what contexts can incurious take the place of aloof?

The words incurious and aloof are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, incurious implies an inability to take a normal interest due to dullness of mind or to self-centeredness.

incurious about the world

When could indifferent be used to replace aloof?

While in some cases nearly identical to aloof, indifferent implies neutrality of attitude from lack of inclination, preference, or prejudice.

indifferent to the dictates of fashion

When is it sensible to use unconcerned instead of aloof?

The synonyms unconcerned and aloof are sometimes interchangeable, but unconcerned suggests a lack of sensitivity or regard for others' needs or troubles.

unconcerned about the homeless

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 aloof Orange cats, which are mostly male, are often seen as chaotic and friendly, while for example grey cats are often labeled aloof and independent. Maria Azzurra Volpe, MSNBC Newsweek, 17 Sep. 2025 Photo Credit Mario Galluci Schnitzer’s philanthropy defies the stereotype of the aloof collector. Stephan Rabimov, Forbes.com, 8 Sep. 2025 Enid-as-Wednesday struggles to stay cool and aloof. Jessica M. Goldstein, Vulture, 3 Sep. 2025 The episode also doubles as a character study of Morrow, who to this point has largely been an aloof, menacing figure. Alan Sepinwall, Rolling Stone, 2 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for aloof
Recent Examples of Synonyms for aloof
Adjective
  • There, the music switches to distant, classical pomp and the actor takes a seat at a tidy press junket-style set.
    Jon Blistein, Rolling Stone, 8 Oct. 2025
  • Electric aviation is far from a distant dream in 2025.
    Atharva Gosavi, Interesting Engineering, 8 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Ultimately, Weitzman says, while some people view the humor through an ironic or detached lens, the movie is made with an honesty that isn’t always depicted in comedy.
    William Earl, Variety, 6 Oct. 2025
  • Due to his austere and detached manner, he is known to immediately inspire awe in his patients.
    Ut Community Press, San Diego Union-Tribune, 16 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • This is when the weather in most places is nicest—not too cold, but not yet hot and humid.
    Kristin Braswell, AFAR Media, 7 Oct. 2025
  • But actually, simply cold emailing employers isn’t a bad way to stand out.
    Orianna Rosa Royle, Fortune, 7 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • This Bear mattress has natural copper infused in the memory foam, which is made to draw out heat to keep sleepers cool all night long.
    Kristi Kellogg, Architectural Digest, 5 Oct. 2025
  • This option is made of a lightweight polyester and spandex blend, which is breathable on hot afternoons, while the extra length provides warmth for cool mornings and evenings.
    Jacqueline Tempera, PEOPLE, 5 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Aloof.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/aloof. Accessed 10 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on aloof

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