slouching
UK[ˈslaʊtʃɪŋ]US[ˈslaʊtʃɪŋ]
adj
sitting, standing, or walking in a lazy, drooping way
v
(present participle) to sit, stand, or walk with a lazy, drooping posture
Etymology
the core of the word lies in the now-obsolete noun 'slouch', which originally referred to a lazy or incompetent person in the 16th century. this likely entered english from a scandinavian word for a slovenly man. the verb form, meaning to adopt a drooping, lazy posture like such a person, developed shortly after. the present participle 'slouching' thus literally describes the act of carrying oneself in the manner of a 'slouch', evolving from a label for a person to a description of a characteristic posture.
Analysis
the word 'slouching' is derived from the verb 'slouch'. its origin is uncertain but likely from a scandinavian source, such as old norse 'slókr' meaning 'a slouching, lazy fellow'. the '-ing' suffix is from old english '-ende', a present participle ending.
Examples
he was slouching in his chair during the entire meeting.
a slouching posture can lead to back pain over time.
stop slouching and stand up straight.