loafer

noun

loaf·​er ˈlō-fər How to pronounce loafer (audio)
1
: one that loafs : idler
2
: a low step-in shoe

Examples of loafer in a Sentence

an incorrigible loafer who never accomplished anything
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Kyle opted for a pair of sleek black slipper loafers to complete the ensemble. Nick Hall, WWD, 7 Feb. 2025 Style it with a slouchy wool coat that wraps around your waist and a pair of chunky loafers for contrast. Kerane Marcellus, Essence, 6 Feb. 2025 Despite its odd segment-splitting design, the US$185 loafer has already proven very popular. New Atlas, 3 Feb. 2025 With that look, Monáe also wore black loafers adorned with red hearts by G.H. Bass, a pair often included with her tour costumes. Laurie Brookins, The Hollywood Reporter, 2 Feb. 2025 See all Example Sentences for loafer 

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of loafer was in 1830

Dictionary Entries Near loafer

Cite this Entry

“Loafer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/loafer. Accessed 21 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

loafer

noun
loaf·​er ˈlō-fər How to pronounce loafer (audio)
1
: a person who loafs
2
: a low shoe with no laces

More from Merriam-Webster on loafer

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!