loaf 1 of 2

Definition of loafnext

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
She is seen going over the shots planned for the next day and remembering that some loafing around is planned. — Chris Willman, Variety, 5 Oct. 2025 Martin removed his right fielder for loafing on a ball hit to the outfield. — Houston Mitchell, Los Angeles Times, 18 June 2025
Noun
Today’s recipe If the idea of another pumpkin loaf doesn’t make your eyes roll out of your head, give this recipe for roasted pumpkin loaves a shot. — Jack Dolan, Los Angeles Times, 13 Oct. 2026 Garlic bread or a nice crusty loaf with butter is perfect as a side! — Andy Baraghani, Bon Appetit Magazine, 9 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for loaf
Recent Examples of Synonyms for loaf
Verb
  • The joy Lisa has with her RHUGT cast compared with the dread her RHOSLC cast seems to bring her really bums me out — especially because of how much of this trip is championing the sisterhood of Housewives.
    — Tom Smyth, Vulture, 31 Aug. 2026
  • My conversation partner returned, somehow unable to bum even a single cigarette from anyone at this party.
    — Sam Stone, Bon Appetit Magazine, 29 July 2026
Noun
  • An autopsy showed Hedgepeth suffered extensive skull fractures and cuts to her face and head, and she was also badly beaten on her arms and legs.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 22 Oct. 2026
  • Newton said local officials are working to get the skull to the Japanese Consulate to have the remains returned to Japan.
    — Joseph States, Chicago Tribune, 22 Oct. 2026
Verb
  • That one creative decision takes away Carrie’s agency at the most crucial moment and seriously undercuts the foundation on which the whole character arc rests.
    — ArsTechnica, ArsTechnica, 21 Oct. 2026
  • Another photograph included in the court filing shows the object resting on aluminum foil beside what appears to be taco meat.
    — Jasmine Baehr, FOXNews.com, 21 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • Your gray matter performs astonishing feats of information processing using little more than the equivalent of a relatively shiny light globe.
    — Mike McRae October 19, New Atlas, 20 Oct. 2026
  • Studies have shown greater gray matter density or stronger white matter integrity in bilingual people, compared with people who speak one language.
    — Karen Stollznow, The Conversation, 18 Sep. 2026
Verb
  • This is really a spot to escape for the weekend with your boo, or a couple of close friends who just want to veg out and drink and enjoy the scenery.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 Sep. 2026
  • Just take care of your[self], and veg out.
    — Jackie Strause, HollywoodReporter, 14 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • Up until 1950, Señorita Rio uses her expert marksmanship, fencing skills, and keen intellect to fight Axis powers across South America.
    — Gaby Iori October 7, Literary Hub, 7 Oct. 2026
  • Tony has led at the highest levels of government, respected for his intellect, strategic vision and ability to bring people together around bold, forward-looking ideas.
    — Alex Weprin, HollywoodReporter, 6 Oct. 2026
Verb
  • My favorite touch was the deep-red plush bathrobe, which somehow made lounging in the room feel like part of the performance.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 Oct. 2026
  • South Floridians of a certain vintage — those familiar with Las Olas pre-pandemic, anyway — may remember Mangos, the Floribbean locals lounge that lasted 25 years on the boulevard before closing in 2017.
    — Phillip Valys, Sun Sentinel, 22 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • The drills include amphibious landing, air and missile defense and mine sweeping, as well as intelligence gathering, logistics and resupply and casualty evacuation on several remote islands, including Tanegashima.
    — Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 20 Oct. 2026
  • Other parts of government already contract out rocket launches, cloud storage, satellite intelligence and artificial-intelligence analysis to the tech sector.
    — Sarah Scoles, Scientific American, 20 Oct. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Loaf.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/loaf. Accessed 25 Oct. 2026.

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