loaf 1 of 2

loaf

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noun

British slang

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb loaf differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of loaf are idle, laze, loll, and lounge. While all these words mean "to spend time doing nothing," loaf suggests either resting or wandering about as though there were nothing to do.

she does her work and then loafs the rest of the day

When is idle a more appropriate choice than loaf?

The words idle and loaf can be used in similar contexts, but idle may be used in reference to persons that move lazily or without purpose.

idled the day away

Where would laze be a reasonable alternative to loaf?

Although the words laze and loaf have much in common, laze usually implies the relaxation of a busy person enjoying a vacation or moments of leisure.

lazed about between appointments

When can loll be used instead of loaf?

The words loll and loaf are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, loll also carries an implication of a posture similar to that of lounge, but places greater stress upon an indolent or relaxed attitude.

lolling on the couch

When could lounge be used to replace loaf?

The meanings of lounge and loaf largely overlap; however, lounge, though occasionally used as equal to idle or loaf, typically conveys an additional implication of resting or reclining against a support or of physical comfort and ease in relaxation.

he lounged against the wall

Examples Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of loaf
Verb
Progressed from loafing here and there with scant dollars in my pocket, to swaggering to and fro with a bankroll swelling my sock. Mitchell S. Jackson, New York Times, 20 Dec. 2023 For loafing around town, this entry-level Sport-Leicht from Mercedes offers all the looks of its pricier siblings while delivering a fine drive, though that satisfaction can drop when it’s driven like it was stolen. Basem Wasef, Robb Report, 6 Oct. 2023
Noun
On the 2023 food menu there was a gingerbread loaf, peppermint brownie cake pop and the cranberry bliss bar. Katie Wiseman, The Courier-Journal, 5 Nov. 2024 Before this, Lindsey had seen the feline sleep only in the loaf position—which, according to PetMD, is a sign a cat is ready to leap into action if necessary. Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 5 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for loaf 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for loaf
Verb
  • From the Yankees’ point of view, Aaron Judge went from hero to superhero to bum all within five innings.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 2 Nov. 2024
  • Sorry to bum you out, but that’s not gonna happen anymore.
    Nate Jones, Vulture, 9 Nov. 2024
Noun
  • Additional skeletal remains in the possession of the University of Wisconsin were found to match the skull, however, leading to more evidence.
    Doha Madani, NBC News, 12 Nov. 2024
  • For men, dress up like dapper skeletons wearing black suits and white shirts, wide-brimmed hats, like a top hat adorned with roses, and classic skull face makeup.
    Nadja Sayej, Forbes, 1 Nov. 2024
Noun
  • The decline is attributed to lower demand for Ramen Express noodles.
    Quartz Bot, Quartz, 14 Nov. 2024
  • Both the earthy, potent red variety and its mild and floral green sister are foundational ingredients in Chinese five-spice, chili crisp, and myriad braises, noodle dishes, and stir-fries.
    Megan Zhang, Saveur, 13 Nov. 2024
Verb
  • Below Nancy Nehring's house, a hunk of metal rested on the sidewalk.
    Leo Bertucci, The Courier-Journal, 22 Nov. 2024
  • Her keyboard has keys in pastel colors that clack like a typewriter’s; next to it rests a glass mug of grass-green matcha latte.
    Kyle Chayka, The New Yorker, 20 Nov. 2024
Noun
  • According to a study in the National Library of Medicine, practices such as meditation, journaling and self-reflection have shown an ability to increase the gray matter of our frontal lobe and strengthening its capabilities.
    Heather V. MacArthur, Forbes, 31 Oct. 2024
  • The third wild card is a parasite that feeds off your gray matter and replaces it with asbestos.
    Grant Brisbee, The Athletic, 24 July 2024
Verb
  • For the Germantown resident, try the shirt with a sausage lounging on a bun, Burt Reynolds style.
    The Courier-Journal, The Courier-Journal, 4 Nov. 2024
  • Make sure to choose a chair or couch that not only matches your style, but is great for lounging in for long periods.
    Claire Hoppe Norgaard, Better Homes & Gardens, 25 Oct. 2024
Noun
  • Sting blends charisma, intellect and sonic sophistication on his tour.
    Nicole Fallert, USA TODAY, 18 Oct. 2024
  • Meaningful work is a magnet for maximizing a leader's effort, intellect, emotional and social intelligence.
    Tony Gambill, Forbes, 1 Oct. 2024
Verb
  • Plus: What better way for locals to veg out during a stressful election season than with some grade-A on-screen drama?
    Mimi Montgomery, Axios, 19 Sep. 2024
  • This isn't only a place to veg out, though.
    Hannah Walhout, Travel + Leisure, 10 Apr. 2023

Thesaurus Entries Near loaf

Cite this Entry

“Loaf.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/loaf. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on loaf

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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