aloof
Say it: uh-LOOF /əˈluːf/ · adjective
What “aloof” means
Distant and unwilling to be friendly or involved.
More precisely: Cool and distant; not friendly or involved.
Example: “New in the city, she seemed aloof, but she was really just shy.”
When to use it
When someone keeps their distance and seems uninterested in others. Usually critical, though shyness can create the same impression.
Similar words
distant, detached, standoffish
Where it comes from
Originally nautical: a- + luff, meaning 'away and to windward'.
Quick check
At the gathering, Alex barely acknowledges friendly greetings and keeps apart from everyone without appearing nervous. Alex seems…
aloof or diffident?
Show the answer
aloof
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