adjective / noun / verb

slack

SLAK/slæk/

A relaxation of tension or tautness.

The slack rope hangs in a deep curve between two posts.

A rope tied between two sturdy posts hangs in a pronounced loose U-shaped curve, clearly showing that it is not taut.

Etymology

slackOld Englishlax, sluggish, lacking energy

Old English slæc described sluggishness or lack of energy. The same idea of reduced exertion also applies to physical tension: a slack rope is not taut, while slack activity lacks its usual force.

In context

Jean-Denis Haas7:12

I love is this here you have the weight of this but then you got the weight of this and then you got the pull and how that goes from slack to tight

Inside Out 2 (Disney/Pixar Teaser) - Animation Analysis and Reaction

More examples

Pull the strap to take up the slack.
Our schedule has enough slack to handle a short delay.
She never slacks off, even when business is slow.

Forms

slack · slacks · slacked · slacking · slacker · slackest

slackness noun — The state of being loose or lax.

slacken verb — To make or become less tight.

Similar words

loose: Describes something not tightly stretched, fastened, or held.
give: Means flexibility under pressure rather than existing loose length.