Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Lagging Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

⏳
Add to dictionary

lagging

[ˈlæɡɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

technology

To fall behind in movement, progress, or development. It can refer to slow internet connection, delayed response, or outdated software.

Synonyms

delay, fall behind, slow down.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
lagging

Lagging can be used when something or someone is consistently slower than expected, especially over time. Often used in technology or performance contexts.

  • The software update is lagging behind schedule.
  • My old computer is lagging and needs to be replaced.
fall behind

Fall behind is suitable for describing a situation where someone or something fails to keep up with a schedule, rate, or standard. It can be used in academic, work, or competitive contexts.

  • She started to fall behind in her studies after missing several classes.
  • Our team fell behind in the race but managed to catch up later.
delay

Delay is appropriate when referring to a temporary postponement or hold-up of an event or action. It is common in transportation, communication, and scheduling.

  • There is a delay in the flight departure due to bad weather.
  • The project faced a delay because of unforeseen circumstances.
slow down

Slow down is used to indicate a reduction in speed, performance, or progress. It's often used in advising someone to take a break or in contexts requiring caution.

  • You should slow down and rest if you feel tired.
  • The economy is expected to slow down in the next quarter.

Examples of usage

  • The video call kept lagging due to poor internet connection.
  • His computer is lagging because it needs a software update.
Context #2 | Noun

sports

A delay or interval between the time something is planned or expected to happen and the time it actually happens.

Synonyms

delay, gap, interval.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
lagging

As noted before, it describes something falling behind, often used in a technical or performance-related context.

  • He felt his internet was lagging when streaming
  • The model’s predictions were lagging behind real-time data
delay

Refers to the act of making something late or slower; commonly used in transportation, project timelines, or communication.

  • The flight was delayed due to bad weather
  • There was a delay in processing your request
interval

Often used in music or performance to describe a break or period of time between events.

  • We have a 15-minute interval between sets
  • The training session includes short intervals for rest
gap

Describes a space or interval between two points, often used in a physical or metaphorical sense.

  • There is a gap between the door and the floor
  • The generation gap is causing misunderstandings

Examples of usage

  • There was a lagging between the planned start time and the actual start time of the race.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Technology

  • In computing, 'lag' refers to a delay between an action and its effect on the screen, often experienced in online gaming.
  • Lagging in internet terms can lead to frustrating pauses or disruptions during video calls or streaming.

Psychology

  • Experiencing lagging feelings can relate to anxiety or procrastination, where tasks feel overwhelming, leading to delays.
  • In developmental psychology, children who lag in skill acquisition might need extra support or encouragement to catch up.

Sports

  • In sports, 'lagging' can describe an athlete who isn’t keeping pace with their competitors, often leading to strategic changes.
  • Coaches often develop tactics to motivate players who are lagging behind to ensure team success.

Pop Culture

  • In movies and songs, characters who lag often symbolize the underdog, resonating with audiences who appreciate perseverance.
  • The term is often used in humorous contexts, like a person lagging behind in trends or technology, highlighting cultural shifts.

Origin of 'lagging'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old Norse word 'laga', meaning 'to lay', emphasizing a sense of falling behind.
  • In the 19th century, 'lag' was used to describe a slow-moving person or thing, evolving over time to its current form.

The word 'lagging' originated from the Middle English word 'laggen', which means 'fail to keep pace.' Over time, it evolved to its current usage in various contexts such as technology and sports. The term reflects the concept of falling behind or experiencing delays in different aspects of life.

See also: lag, lager, laggard, lagger.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,949, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.