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V2 Vocabulary Building Dictionary


aloof

adjective

Definition: 1. remote in manner and unwilling to become involved with people or events, usually due to indifference or haughtiness; 2. physically distant or apart

Synonyms: indifferent, apart, standoffish, haughty, distant, detached, remote

Antonyms: warm, friendly, social, close

Tips: Although the exact origin of aloof is unknown, it most likely came from Dutch te loef, "to steer clear of something." Aloof often, though not always, carries a negative connotation because of the implied feeling of superiority or arrogance. For a memory trick, note how aloof sounds and looks like "al roof." Now visualize a man name Al on a roof at a party. He wants to separate himself from everyone because of his aloof nature--Al is standoffish and wants to be away from people, so he hides on the roof.

Usage Examples:

John held himself aloof from the bitter squabbles among his coworkers. (apart, detached)

A lone deer stood at the forest's edge, aloof from the rest of the herd. (apart, detached)

I went to the party hoping to make new friends, but most of the people were rather aloof. (standoffish, haughty)

Is he aloof and arrogant, or simply shy and introverted? (detached, standoffish, haughty)


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