aloofness

noun

Definition of aloofnessnext
1
as in indifference

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2
as in distance

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Dissimilar Words

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 aloofness And although that single failure doesn’t disqualify him from being able to lead, some of his other qualities — obsessive perfectionism, hyper-focus that can come off as aloofness, a tendency to go his own way — aren’t always serving him well in tense moments such as this one. — Michael Silver, New York Times, 16 Jan. 2026 Remaining silent may shroud those in power in a cloak of untouchability, projecting confidence in their authority — but also aloofness. — Yeo Boon Ping, CNBC, 26 Nov. 2025 Throughout many revealing conversations, the braggadocious zeal of Poseidon and Zeus, the sexy aloofness of Aphrodite and Dionysus, and the sniveling bitchery of Hermes and Hypnos were endearing, but all gave way to flawed people who grew deeply over time. — Christopher Cruz, Rolling Stone, 27 Sep. 2025 Reached by phone, the father comes off as a cold, uncaring man, and Pacino portrays him with chilling aloofness. — Bilge Ebiri, Vulture, 2 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for aloofness
Recent Examples of Synonyms for aloofness
  1. indifference
  2. distance
  3. unconcern
  4. composure
  5. shyness
  6. bashfulness
  7. modesty
  8. reticence
Noun
  • That was the Cubs’ only runner in scoring position until a defensive indifference allowed Seiya Suzuki to advance to second after a two-out walk in the ninth.
    — Meghan Montemurro, Chicago Tribune, 19 Aug. 2026
  • Twenty-seven percent showed indifference, however, possibly demonstrating that most voters would be fine supporting them in a general election, said Christian Grose, a political science professor at the University of Southern California.
    — Justine McDaniel, Los Angeles Times, 19 Aug. 2026
Definition of indifference
Noun
  • The footage also showed federal agents were by the apartment front door and Neal was at a significant distance when the shooting occurred, according to Wharton.
    — Juliana Kim, NPR, 23 Aug. 2026
  • But Norris ensured that Antonelli could not escape into the distance and, after both cars switched to the hard compound tire, started to look more comfortable than the championship leader.
    — Madeline Coleman, New York Times, 23 Aug. 2026
Definition of distance
Noun
  • The book’s occasional oases of self-examination are surrounded by dusty expanses of omission and unconcern.
    — Lauren Collins, New Yorker, 13 Dec. 2025
  • Whatever the reason, Maxwell’s strength and the shark’s apparent unconcern put one of Maxwell’s friends in danger.
    — Donald Millus, Outdoor Life, 3 July 2025
Definition of unconcern
Noun
  • Ampadu’s tenacity in the tackle, composure on the ball and his long throw — an emerging weapon — all contributed to the team’s strong showings.
    — Adam Crafton, New York Times, 18 Aug. 2026
  • Willis showed good composure, arm strength, accuracy and decision-making, going 4-for-5 passing for 43 yards while leading the Dolphins on a 14-play, 93-yard touchdown drive.
    — Chris Perkins, Sun Sentinel, 15 Aug. 2026
Definition of composure
Noun
  • Prince George seems to have inherited Princess Diana’s endearing shyness.
    — Christina Perrier, InStyle, 5 Aug. 2026
  • The smile didn’t come immediately, but suddenly the shyness gave way and her smile stretched from ear to ear.
    — Andy Clayton, New York Daily News, 26 June 2026
Definition of shyness
Noun
  • Her skin—something known as Frubber, a porous patented blend of fleshlike elastic polymers—stretched over a structure of plastic and titanium, and there was no flicker of bashfulness.
    — Dan Turello, New Yorker, 10 Jan. 2026
Definition of bashfulness
Noun
  • The relentless state media campaign on the issue often cites prayer leaders who insist the hijab is part of Iranian cultural identity and that women should observe modesty.
    — Tim Lister, CNN Money, 23 Aug. 2026
  • With quick feet, high IQ, and patience, Burkin carries a modesty that endears him to his teammates and coaches.
    — Ethan Hanson, Daily News, 19 Aug. 2026
Definition of modesty
Noun
  • In Chile, in addition to the geological challenges discussed above, some reticence to invest in copper development may also be due in part to the strength of the country’s lithium sector.
    — Ariel Cohen, Forbes.com, 18 Aug. 2026
  • Also in that courtroom that first day is his brother Jack (Noah Centineo), a more visibly restless and outgoing soul compared to Cody’s protective reticence.
    — Robert Abele, Los Angeles Times, 14 Aug. 2026
Definition of reticence

Browse Nearby Words

aloofly
aloofness
a lot
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Cite this Entry

“Aloofness.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/aloofness. Accessed 24 Aug. 2026.

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