aloof
aloof Lexical Profile
aloof Game Scores & Validity
• adjective
Cool, distant, and reserved in manner or attitude; not friendly or forthcoming.
"Although the new director seemed aloof at first, his colleagues soon realized he was simply shy around strangers."
Conspicuously uninvolved and refraining from taking part in an activity, conflict, or affair (usually followed by 'from').
"The neutral nation remained aloof from the regional dispute for several decades."
• adverb
At a distance, away, or apart from others or from a center of activity.
"While the younger children played games in the yard, the older teenagers stood aloof near the porch."
• Rhymes for aloof
Word Origin & Etymology
Originated in the 16th century as a nautical adverb combining 'a-' (on, toward) and 'loof' (from Middle Dutch 'loef', meaning the windward side of a ship), originally instructing a helmsman to steer into the wind to stay clear of a shore or obstacle.