Dictionary

1lax

adjective \ˈlaks\

: not careful enough : not strict enough

Full Definition of LAX

1
a of the bowels :  loose, open
b :  having loose bowels
2
:  deficient in firmness :  not stringent <lax control> <a lax foreman>
3
a :  not tense, firm, or rigid :  slack <a lax rope>
b :  having an open or loose texture
c :  having the constituents spread apart <a lax flower cluster>
4
:  articulated with the muscles involved in a relatively relaxed state (as the vowel \i\ in contrast with the vowel \ē\)
lax·a·tion \lak-ˈsā-shən\ noun
lax·ly \ˈlaks-lē\ adverb
lax·ness noun
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Origin of LAX

Middle English, from Latin laxus loose — more at slack
First Known Use: 14th century

Synonym Discussion of LAX

negligent, neglectful, lax, slack, remiss mean culpably careless or indicative of such carelessness. negligent implies inattention to one's duty or business <negligent about writing a note of thanks>. neglectful adds a more disapproving implication of laziness or deliberate inattention <a society callously neglectful of the poor>. lax implies a blameworthy lack of strictness, severity, or precision <a reporter lax about accurate quotation>. slack implies want of due or necessary diligence or care <slack workmanship>. remiss implies blameworthy carelessness shown in slackness, forgetfulness, or neglect <had been remiss in their familial duties>.

Rhymes with LAX

2lax

noun

Definition of LAX

:  lacrosse

Origin of LAX

by shortening & alteration (x as symbol for -crosse)
First Known Use: 1951

Other Field and Goal Sports Terms

crease, lateral, overthrow, playbook, post, screen, scrum, secondary, ultimate
LAX Defined for Kids

lax

adjective \ˈlaks\

Definition of LAX for Kids

1
:  not firm or tight :  loose <The straps were lax.>
2
:  not stern or strict <lax discipline>
lax·ness noun
Medical Dictionary

lax

adjective \ˈlaks\

Medical Definition of LAX

1
of the bowels :  loose 3
2
:  having loose bowels

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