adj
aloof
uh-LOOF
adj
1
Distant or reserved in manner, keeping oneself apart emotionally or socially.
"He stayed aloof from the office gossip."
"Some found her aloof, though she was simply shy."
How to Use Aloof
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishStanding apart, cool and distant, not getting emotionally involved.
Common mistake
Don't confuse being aloof (choosing distance) with being shy (nervous around people) — they can look similar but mean different things.
Common pairings
remain aloof
aloof and distant
stay aloof from
Word Forms
more aloof comparative, more aloof comparative, most aloof superlative, most aloof superlative
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Etymology
Originally a nautical term meaning to keep a ship's bow pointed into the wind, away from the shore — the literal sense of "keeping clear" became the figurative sense of emotional distance.