Definition of lax

competent Definition: (adjective) having the skill and knowledge needed for a particular task; capable Petersons.com

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< lawyering

laxative >

lax    (lks) KEY  

ADJECTIVE:
lax·er , lax·est

1. Lacking in rigor, strictness, or firmness. See Synonyms at negligent.
2. Not taut, firm, or compact; slack. See Synonyms at loose.
3. Loose and not easily retained or controlled. Used of bowel movements.
4. Linguistics Pronounced with the muscles of the tongue and jaw relatively relaxed, as the vowel () in let.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Middle English, from Latin laxus, loose, lax; see slg- in Indo-European roots

OTHER FORMS:
lax·ation (Noun), laxly (Adverb), laxness (Noun)

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