Entry Word: lax

Function: adjective

Meaning: 1 failing to give proper care and attention <lax parents who let their kids stay out as late as they want> — see negligent
2 not bound by rigid standards <the guidelines for the essay contest were fairly lax, permitting a wide variety of topics> — see easygoing 2
3 not tightly fastened, tied, or stretched <the sheet on the foresail was lax, and so the sail was flapping wildly in the stiff wind> — see loose 1