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slack

Definition

  • noun: the part of a rope, chain, etc., that hangs loosely
  • verb: to be or become slack
  • verb: to give little or no effort or attention to work
  • adjective: not stretched or held in a tight position
  • adjective: not using due diligence, care, or dispatch
  • sometimes used figuratively to describe a part of something that is available but not used
  • synonyms: loose, negligent, culm

Examples

  • When he didn't get the pay raise he was expecting, he had to take another job to 'pick up the slack'. [=to make up for the money he was not making]

  • The manager has to 'take up the slack' when employees don't do their jobs correctly.

  • We left some 'slack' in the budget so that we can hire more people if we have to.

Movie clips

Movie quotes

  • (..) for that pickaninny, ain't got no use for 'em, ain't that right, Doc? – You heard 'em! CANDIE: I'm gonna have to excuse Mr. Stonesipher's slack jawed gaze, he… he ain't never seen a nigger like you ever in his life. Ain't that right, Mr. Stonesipher? – That right. CALVIN: That matter… (..)
    2012 Django Unchained