slacken
verb (used with or without object)
to make or become less active, vigorous, intense, etc.
slackens
-
present tense formof slacken (3rd person singular).present tense
Used to describe things happening now or regularly.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Her lyrical descriptions bring fresh poignancy to well-worn scenes of exile, though her narrative slackens a little on foreign terrain.
From The Wall Street Journal ● May 29, 2026
The problem is that the birth-death model tends to exaggerate job creation at turning points in the economy — when growth accelerates or when it slackens off.
From MarketWatch ● Dec. 12, 2025
The seams show only toward the end, when the film’s pace slackens, but even then, the cast’s chemistry and flawless timing hold steady.
From New York Times ● Jul. 6, 2023
Just when the pace slackens, Crewe deftly flicks the reins, and “The New Life” jolts forward, as with the scandal of Oscar Wilde’s trial.
From Washington Post ● Dec. 29, 2022
Her grip on her purse slackens and her neck makes a nice curve.
From "Jazz" by Toni Morrison
