Loafin’ (Loafing)

In Southern and Appalachian speech, "loafin’" (or "loafing") means being out and about without a set destination - wandering, hanging around, or just passing the time. It can also mean being idle or lazy, but in country talk it often means roaming aimlessly.

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Hillbilly Dude Says...

My Dad always took us out 'loafin’' growin' up, and that's what I call it with my family.

Pronunciation

[LOAF-in]

Meaning & Usage

- Being out and about without a destination (verb, regional sense)

Mae:

Where’s the boys at?

Earl:

Just loafin’ all over town.

- Idling, wasting time (verb, general sense)

Mae:

Why ain’t you workin’?

Earl:

Just loafin’ a spell.

variations: wandering, ramblin’, idlin’, out loafin’ in town, loafin’ around the backroads, quit loafin’ and help

★ "Loafin’" in mountain talk doesn’t always mean lazy - it can mean simply being out, roaming, or hanging around without a plan. ★

Origin

From the English word "loaf," meaning to be idle. In Southern and Appalachian usage, it broadened to include wandering or hanging around without a set purpose.

Notes

In general English, "loafing" just means being lazy. In Southern and Appalachian speech, "loafin’" also carries the sense of roaming aimlessly - not tied to one spot like "cruisin’" Main Street, but anywhere in town or the backroads.

Say It Like a Southerner

Said plain: "loaf-in." The final "g" is dropped, giving it that easy Southern drawl.

Kin Topics

Kin Words, Stories and More

Common Questions

Does "loafin’" always mean lazy?

Not in the South - it can also mean being out without a destination.

Is "loafing" used outside the South?

Yes, but mostly in the sense of being idle or wasting time.

Do people still say it today?

Yes, though it’s more common in rural and Southern talk than in city speech.