Definition of the word slack off

The phrase "slack off" is a slang term that has gained popularity in modern English. Its origins can be traced back to the mid-19th century, during the Industrial Revolution in Britain. At that time, workers in textile mills were required to maintain a certain level of productivity. Those who failed to meet their targets were called "slackers", as they were perceived as being lazy or ineffective. This term was derived from the noun "slack", which means "loose or baggy", and was used to describe poorly woven fabrics that contained slack or uneven threads. The verb "slack" also has a historical meaning of "neglecting duties", as a slacker was someone who did not perform their assigned tasks diligently. By the late 1800s, the expressions "slack off" and "slacking" had emerged as informal ways of describing someone who was not fully engaged in their work or was not fulfilling their responsibilities. Over time, the use of "slack off" also extended to describe someone who was idle or unproductive in general, not just in the context of work. The phrase has now become a part of popular culture and is commonly used in various contexts, from academic settings to casual conversations. It continues to convey the meaning of being unmotivated or not putting in enough effort to achieve one's goals.