loafer

noun

loaf·​er ˈlō-fər 

1

: one that loafs : idler

2

: a low step-in shoe

Synonyms of loafer

• slug
• drone
• bum
• snail
• idler
• slouch
• sluggard
• layabout
• deadbeat

Examples of loafer in a Sentence

an incorrigible loafer who never accomplished anything

Recent Examples on the Web

The iconic horsebit motif was carried through in backless loafers and foldover, pointed-toe pumps that possess a familiar sense of everyday wearability. —Laura Jackson, Vogue, 25 Mar. 2026

Try elevated shoes like loafers, kitten heels, or glove flats, and throw on a blazer or a sleek blouse if your look needs a little extra zhuzh. —Jake Henry Smith, Glamour, 24 Mar. 2026

But because each one has something slightly unique about it—see the jacket’s buttery leather, the denim’s white color, and the loafer’s backless silhouette—the sum of its parts is quite striking. —Alison Syrett Cleary, InStyle, 14 Mar. 2026

Dress it up with white trousers and loafers, or keep it casual with your favorite jeans. —Alexandra Emanuelli, Southern Living, 14 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

perhaps short for landloafer, from German Landläufer tramp, from Land + Läufer runner

First Known Use

1830, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing loafer

• penny loafer

Rhymes for loafer

• gopher

Kids Definition

loafer

noun

loaf·​er ˈlō-fər 

1

: a person who loafs

2

: a low shoe with no laces