loaf 1 of 2

loaf

2 of 2

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
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
Noun
The cook time depends on the size of the loaf, but start with 5-6 minutes for a smaller or half loaf, and longer for a larger one. Cody Godwin, USA Today, 2 June 2025 Drizzle Glaze over warm loaves or serve on side for dipping. Marianne Williams, Southern Living, 26 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for loaf
Recent Examples of Synonyms for loaf
Verb
  • The graduate is not only bummed about the sister’s absence.
    Brian Anthony Hernandez, People.com, 25 May 2025
  • Everyone — from those actually paying to the ones still bumming a log-in — wants to know how Netflix and other streaming services’ crackdowns on password sharing affect them.
    Savannah Salazar, Vulture, 20 May 2025
Noun
  • Stringer and Bian measured different parts of the skulls, noting the overall skull length, the length of the rows of teeth, and other characteristics.
    Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 26 June 2025
  • The man was hospitalized with internal bleeding in his skull and other injuries, officers said.
    Olivia Lloyd, Charlotte Observer, 25 June 2025
Verb
  • Jacob Beam’s Impact on Bourbon Jacob’s success rested on careful craftsmanship.
    Joseph V Micallef, Forbes.com, 21 June 2025
  • Paralegal Ananya Sankar was called to the stand first and spoke to the accuracy of the text messages and documents which as the prosecution prepares to rest their portion of the case, has topped hundreds of pages.
    Essence, Essence, 20 June 2025
Noun
  • While gray matter naturally decreases with age, research indicates that adults who engage in excessive screen time have significantly lower gray matter volume compared to their peers.
    Caroline Castrillon, Forbes.com, 18 June 2025
  • Their temporary electronic face tattoo, or e-tattoo, can read brain waves and not only detect when the ol' gray matter is overworked, but also predict when exhaustion is approaching.
    Paul McClure May 29, New Atlas, 29 May 2025
Verb
  • Patio mats can also make the pool more comfortable for lounging, and create a soft base for toddlers or small children to play on.
    Lauren Bengtson, Better Homes & Gardens, 25 June 2025
  • While the building is meant as a nod to the land’s agricultural roots, this one is for play rather than work: It’s set up for lounging and dining inside, with a wet bar for mixing up drinks and an outdoor fire pit perfect for making s’mores.
    Tori Latham, Robb Report, 24 June 2025
Noun
  • As a Gemini man, many are drawn to his wit, intellect, and intuitive curiosity.
    Mya Abraham, VIBE.com, 12 June 2025
  • The King of Swords invites you to lead with intellect, integrity, and objectivity.
    Meghan Rose, Glamour, 1 June 2025
Verb
  • 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
  • Making the choice to be social is especially difficult at the end of an exhausting day when your impulse may be to veg out on the couch.
    Allie Volpe, Vox, 7 Dec. 2018
Noun
  • Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu launched an initial offensive on Friday, targeting Iran's military and intelligence leadership, along with critical nuclear sites.
    Chloe Mayer, MSNBC Newsweek, 17 June 2025
  • An official with the Office of the Director of National Intelligence told ABC News that Gabbard has been working closely with Trump, Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and other national security officials to share regular intelligence updates.
    Ivan Pereira, ABC News, 17 June 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Loaf.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/loaf. Accessed 2 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on loaf

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!