Slack
Noun
Definition: The state or quality of being slack; lack of tension or tightness.
Synonyms: Looseness, Laxity
Antonyms: Tautness, Tightness
- The rope had too much slack and couldn't support their weight.
- The little child held on to her mother's slack hand as they crossed the street.
- Think of a slack rope hanging loosely.
Adjective
Definition: Not tight or not firmly stretched.
Definition: Lacking in activity or productivity; idle or lazy.
Synonyms: Loose, Lax, Idle, Sluggish, Lazy
Antonyms: Tight, Firm, Active, Hardworking
- The belt on my pants became slack after losing weight.
- The team's slack performance resulted in their loss.
- Imagine a loose belt hanging off your hips.
Verb
Definition: To become or make less taut or tight.
Definition: To be remiss in fulfilling one's duty or responsibility.
Synonyms: Loosen, Relax, Decrease, Neglect
Antonyms: Tighten, Secure, Increase, Fulfill
- He slacked the tension on the guitar strings before tuning them.
- Don't slack off on your studies if you want to get good grades.
- Slackening a bowstring to decrease tension.
Etymology:
Old English 'slec', meaning "loose, careless"
Historical Usage:The word evolved from Old English to Middle English, retaining its sense of looseness and laziness.
Related Idioms:
"Cutting someone some slack"
Explanation:To be lenient or forgiving towards someone's mistakes or shortcomings.
Misconceptions:
Confusing 'slack' (adjective) with 'slack' (verb) in context.
Explanation:They have different meanings and should be used correctly based on the intended usage.