a·loof –adverb
1. at a distance, esp. in feeling or interest; apart: They always stood aloof from their classmates.
–adjective
2. reserved or reticent; indifferent; disinterested: Because of his shyness, he had the reputation of being aloof.
—Related forms
a·loof·ly, adverb
a·loof·ness, noun
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Dictionary,
© Random House, Inc. 2010.
"But curb thou the high spirit in thy breast, for gentle ways are best, and keep aloof from sharp contentions. "
(Homer)
*Photo by unknown author
After great pain, a formal feeling comes
341
After great pain, a formal feeling comes—
The Nerves sit ceremonious, like Tombs—
The stiff Heart questions was it He, that bore,
And Yesterday, or Centuries before?
The Feet, mechanical, go round—
Of Ground, or Air, or Ought—
A Wooden way
Regardless grown,
A Quartz contentment, like a stone—
This is the Hour of Lead—
Remembered, if outlived,
As Freezing persons, recollect the Snow—
First—Chill—then Stupor—then the letting go—
Emily Dickinson
