slacken

[slak-uhn]

verb (used with or without object)

1. to make or become less active, vigorous, intense, etc.

   Synonyms: abate, slack, loosen, relax

2. to make or become looser or less taut.

   Synonyms: abate, slack, loosen, relax
   Antonyms: tense, tighten

slacken

/ ˈslækən /

verb

1. to make or become looser

2. to make or become slower, less intense, etc

Other Word Forms

• unslackened adjective
• unslackening adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of slacken¹

First recorded in 1570–80; slack ¹ + -en ¹

Example Sentences

Retail sales also fell last month, while firms from Walmart to Delta Air Lines have warned of slackening demand.

From BBC

The report cautioned that it is too early to determine what caused the rate to slacken.

From BBC

Last year — amid a stagnating economy and slackening labor market — it reached record highs.

From Los Angeles Times

It was only by goal number 10 that the pace slackened.

From BBC

For Congress to even contemplate a slackening of the regulation that already exists is nothing short of absurd.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• abate 
• diminish 
• loosen 
• mitigate 
• relent 
• retard 
• sag 
• soften 
• subside 
• weaken