Dictionary entry

Aloof (2)

Webster's Dictionary 1913

A‐loof″, adv. [Pref. a- + loof, fr. D. loef luff, and so meaning, as a nautical word, to the windward. See Loof, Luff.] 1. At or from a distance, but within view, or at a small distance; apart; away.

Our palace stood aloof from streets.

Dryden.

2. Without sympathy; unfavorably.

To make the Bible as from the hand of God, and then to look at it aloof and with caution, is the worst of all impieties.

I. Taylor.