Definition

To make something less tight, intense, or fast; to loosen or slow down.

Example

I slackened the rope to give the boat more room to move.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Hey, do you think we should slacken the schedule for our project a bit?

Yeah, it's been pretty intense lately, and we could use a breather.

I agree, a little more time might help us do a better job.

Exactly! Let’s propose a later deadline to the team.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Slacken → It is formed from "slack" (from Old English *slæc*, meaning loose or not tight) and "-en" (a suffix used to form verbs). The word "slacken" means to make something less tight or to loosen it.

Memory Tip

Think of something becoming 'loose' ('slack') when you 'make' it less tight ('-en').

Visually Confused Words