straggler

/'stræglə/

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Word: Straggler

Definition: A "straggler" is a noun that refers to someone who falls behind or moves away from the main group. This can happen in various situations, such as when people are walking together, participating in an event, or completing a task. The straggler is usually not as fast or may get distracted, which causes them to lag behind.

Usage Instructions:

• The word "straggler" is usually used in contexts where there is a group of people moving or working together.
• It can refer to a person in a physical sense (like walking) or in a more general sense (like completing work or tasks).

Example:

• "During the hike, John became a straggler because he stopped to take pictures of the beautiful scenery."
• "In the race, the stragglers were given extra time to finish."

Advanced Usage:

• In a more figurative sense, “straggler” can also refer to someone who is behind in progress or development, such as in education or technology.
• Example: "The company’s outdated software made it a straggler in the competitive tech industry."

Word Variants:

• Straggle (verb): To move or wander away from the main group, to lag behind.
  • Example: "Don’t straggle too far behind; we need to stick together."
• Straggling (adjective): Describing someone or something that is falling behind or wandering off.
  • Example: "The straggling group finally caught up with the others."

Different Meanings:

• While "straggler" primarily refers to someone who falls behind, it can also refer to something that is left behind or remains in a place longer than expected.

Synonyms:

• Laggard
• Trailing person
• Slowpoke
• Latecomer

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• "Fall behind": To not keep up with others.
  • Example: "If you don’t study regularly, you will fall behind in your classes."
• "Get left behind": To be unable to keep up and be separated from the group.
  • Example: "He was so absorbed in his phone that he got left behind during the tour."

Academic

Noun

1. someone who strays or falls behind

Synonyms

• strayer