# loom

/ˈɫum/ (US) · /lˈuːm/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/loom
Updated: 2026-05-31

## Definition

to appear as a large, dark, or scary shape, especially when you cannot see it clearly. You also use it to describe a problem that feels like it is coming soon.

For teachers: to appear as a vague, often large or threatening shape; to be about to happen in a way that causes worry. Intransitive — does not take a direct object.

## Examples

- Dark clouds loom over the mountains.
- The deadline for the final project began to loom as the weekend approached.
- A massive silhouette began to loom through the thick morning fog, eventually revealing itself to be the hull of a rusted cargo ship.

## Usage notes

- Intransitive; often followed by prepositions like 'over', 'above', or 'large'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.