slacker
This term carries a strong negative connotation of willful negligence and a lack of ambition. It describes someone who does not merely struggle with a task but actively chooses to exert the minimum effort possible, often relying on others to compensate for their shortcomings. In modern workplace or academic settings, it implies a character flaw rather than a temporary lapse in productivity.
Historically, the word held a much more severe legal and social weight, specifically referring to draft dodgers or those evading mandatory military service. While the contemporary usage is often casual or teasing, the military context evokes themes of cowardice and betrayal of national duty.
Meanings
Examples
The company culture does not tolerate a slacker in the engineering department.