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.
Keep scrolling to shop more roomy tote bags, in-between season sweaters, comfortable jeans, and stylish loafers inspired by Jennifer Garner. Alyssa Grabinski, People.com, 23 Feb. 2025 The man suspected of killing UnitedHealthcare chief executive officer Brian Thompson wore a dark green knit sweater, khaki pants and brown loafers to the courtroom — a look that soon went viral. Renan Botelho, WWD, 22 Feb. 2025 Are you surrounded by individuals who drain your energy (i.e., leeches and loafers)? Glenn Llopis, Forbes, 22 Feb. 2025 Ideal driving shoes include trainers, loafers, and boat shoes. Matt Robison, Newsweek, 18 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

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Cite this Entry

“Loafer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/loafer. Accessed 3 Mar. 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
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