1. in a cold, unfriendly, or aloof manner

Examples

• She greeted the new neighbors standoffishly, barely making eye contact.
• The celebrity behaved standoffishly at the interview, giving short answers.
• He responded standoffishly to their invitation, making it clear he wasn’t interested.
• The manager spoke standoffishly to employees, creating tension in the office.
• She smiled standoffishly when introduced, keeping her distance from the group.
• The dog approached standoffishly, unsure whether to trust the stranger.