Main Entry:

la·ches

Pronunciation:

\ˈla-chəz, ˈlā-\

Function:

noun

Inflected Form(s):

plural laches

Etymology:

Middle English lachesse, from Anglo-French laschesce, from lasche lax, ultimately from Latin laxare to loosen — more at lease

Date:

14th century

: negligence in the observance of duty or opportunity ; specifically : undue delay in asserting a legal right or privilege