Definition of slack

The word "slack" has its roots in Old English and Old Norse. In Old English, "slac" or "slak" meant "lazy" or "idling," while in Old Norse, "slaka" meant "to be loose" or "to be relaxed." The modern English word "slack" emerged in the 14th century, initially meaning "to be idle" or "to waste time." Over time, the spelling and meaning of the word evolved, and by the 16th century, "slack" was used to describe something that was loose or lacking in tension, such as a rope or a fabric. In the 20th century, the term "slack" took on new meanings in the context of computing, project management, and other fields. For example, "slack" might refer to the time or resources available between tasks or projects, or it could describe a lack of tension or resistance in a system or process. Despite its evolution, the word "slack" remains linked to its ancient roots, evoking notions of relaxation, idleness, and a sense of freedom.