An American fish, belonging to the genus Clupea, and called Clupea Serrata. it resembles the herring. The established pronunciation is alewife, plu alewives.

At a distance, but within view, or at a small distance, in a literal sense; as, to stand aloof.

In a figurative sense, not concerned in a design; declining to take any share, implying circumspection; keeping at a distance from the point, or matter in debate.