Definition

The condition of being loose or not tight; a lack of tension or firmness.

Example

The slackness of the rope made it difficult to climb the hill.

Conversation

Have you noticed the slackness in the rope we used for climbing?

Yeah, I think we need to tighten it before our next climb.

That could really affect our safety if we don't fix the slackness.

Exactly! Better to be safe than sorry.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Slackness → It is formed from "slack" (from Old Norse *slakr*, meaning loose or negligent) and "-ness" (meaning the state or quality of). The word "slackness" refers to the state of being loose or negligent.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'slack' meaning loose or negligent, and remember that 'slackness' describes the quality of being loose or negligent.

Visually Confused Words