loft

Everyday

1. (UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand) A loft is the room or space just under the roof of a house, often used for storage (US: attic). tree →
2. A loft is a large flat in an old factory or warehouse, with high ceilings (especially US). tree →
3. A hayloft is the upper floor of a barn where hay is stored. tree →
4. A pigeon loft is a shed for keeping pigeons. tree →
5. To loft a ball is to hit or kick it high into the air. tree →

In the lessons

In everyday life, families keep boxes of old toys and decorations «up in the loft»; loft insulation keeps homes warm and saves energy (a science and energy topic). In stories, children find secrets in the loft. In sport, a player lofts the ball over a defender. Phrases: «up in the loft», «loft insulation», «loft conversion», «loft ladder».

Examples

• The Christmas decorations are up in the loft. tree →
• Dad climbed the loft ladder. tree →
• Loft insulation keeps heat in the house. tree →
• We turned the loft into a bedroom. tree →
• The cat was hiding in the hayloft. tree →
• She lofted the ball over the goalkeeper. tree →
• When all is quiet we will hide in the loft.’ tree →

Note

Countable. British «loft» is close to American «attic». Related adjective «lofty» means very high or proud. Regular verb (lofted).