aloof
Translation
aloof, distant, 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 not friendly or forthcoming; cool and distant 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 Dutch 'a loef' (to luff), a nautical term meaning to sail into the wind, thus away from something.
Memory Tips
Imagine someone standing 'a roof' above everyone else, looking down and keeping their distance.