| Library / English Dictionary |
ALOOF
| Pronunciation (US): |  | (GB): | |
I. (adjective)
Sense 1
Meaning:
Remote in manner
Example:
he was upstage with strangers
Synonyms:
Classified under:
Similar:
reserved (marked by self-restraint and reticence)
Derivation:
aloofness (a disposition to be distant and unsympathetic in manner)
II. (adverb)
Sense 1
Meaning:
In an aloof manner
Example:
the local gentry and professional classes had held aloof for the school had accepted their sons readily enough
Classified under:
Pertainym:
aloof (remote in manner)
Context examples:
He did not mingle with it, but remained aloof, always himself, and was even feared by it.
(White Fang, by Jack London)
They stood a little aloof while he was talking to their niece, who, astonished and confused, scarcely dared lift her eyes to his face, and knew not what answer she returned to his civil inquiries after her family.
(Pride and Prejudice, by Jane Austen)
If Jo had not been otherwise engaged, Laurie's behavior would have amused her, for a faint twinge, not of jealousy, but something like suspicion, caused that gentleman to stand aloof at first, and observe the newcomer with brotherly circumspection.
(Little Women, by Louisa May Alcott)
