1
as in loosens
to make less taut
you'll need to slacken the rope a bit to get it free of that post
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in slows
to cause to move or proceed at a less rapid pace
drivers need to slacken their speed as they approach the sharp curve
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of slackens
On DeFilippis’s stage (kept effectively earthy and stark by scenic designer Ashley Basile), the stakes are ratcheted up from the jump and the tension never slackens.
—
Sara Holdren,
Vulture,
23 Mar. 2026
Electromagnetism and the weak interaction intensify, while the strong force slackens.
—
Quanta Magazine,
11 Mar. 2026
The pacing slackens a little as the complicated process inches forward, but the ending tugs the heartstrings in enormously satisfying ways.
—
David Rooney,
HollywoodReporter,
10 Mar. 2026
With the help of Matt Mayer’s rhythmic editing and Tony Doogan’s string-torturing score, the intrigue never slackens.
—
Bob Strauss,
San Francisco Chronicle,
19 Aug. 2025
Sara Holdren,
Vulture,
23 Mar. 2026
Electromagnetism and the weak interaction intensify, while the strong force slackens.
—
Quanta Magazine,
11 Mar. 2026
The pacing slackens a little as the complicated process inches forward, but the ending tugs the heartstrings in enormously satisfying ways.
—
David Rooney,
HollywoodReporter,
10 Mar. 2026
With the help of Matt Mayer’s rhythmic editing and Tony Doogan’s string-torturing score, the intrigue never slackens.
—
Bob Strauss,
San Francisco Chronicle,
19 Aug. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for slackens
Verb
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The heat softens and loosens debris in the carpet fibers so it can be vacuumed away.
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One of the gentlest is WD-40, which loosens rust, lubricates parts, and helps protect the surface from further rusting.
Verb
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Still, Beijing is betting billions of dollars on humanoid robots as a strategic technology that could increase productivity as economic growth slows and its workforce shrinks.
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If tech slows you down, create simple folders or update your settings so your system supports your focus.
Cite this Entry
“Slackens.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/slackens. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.
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