aloof
Translation
aloof, distant, unfriendly, reserved
Examples
She seemed rather aloof when we first met.
She seemed rather aloof when we first met.
He remained aloof from the argument.
He remained aloof from the argument.
Grammar Patterns
to be aloof to be distant or unfriendly She seemed rather aloof.
to remain/stay aloof from ((sth.)) to not become involved in (sth.) He remained aloof from the argument.
Similar Words
Synonyms: distant, detached, reserved; Antonyms: friendly, sociable
Etymology
From 'a-' (on) + Middle English 'loof' (windward direction), a nautical term. Steering into the wind meant moving away from shore, hence 'apart, at a distance'.
Memory Tips
Imagine someone who acts like they are 'a roof' above everyone else, staying distant and separate.