Straggle

To move slowly or wander off, especially from a main group or path; to spread out irregularly or in a scattered fashion; to trail or linger behind. The word often implies a lack of cohesion, organization, or urgency. It can describe both physical movement and the spatial arrangement of things. In a more abstract sense, 'straggle' can refer to a gradual decline or a failure to keep pace with progress or expectations. The connotation often suggests a certain degree of inefficiency or delay. The focus is typically on an individual or entity falling behind or deviating from a defined pattern or trajectory, impacting pace or flow, implying a delay or slowing down of an event.

Straggle meaning with examples

• The hikers, already tired, began to straggle behind as the terrain became steeper. Some stopped to catch their breath while others moved slower and were struggling with packs, impacting the group's flow, causing them to fall behind. This caused others to worry, creating delays in arrival.
• After the sudden rainstorm, shoppers began to straggle out of the department store one by one, with many going the wrong direction. Most were still stunned and bewildered. It took the store a while to fully empty, showing an unorganized slow departure from its doors.
• The early releases were of a higher standard, but later products began to straggle, as innovation slowed due to lack of funding. As the product moved through its life cycle, new products began to surpass the old, creating a lagging appearance of the overall brand.
• During the marathon, a few runners started to straggle and pull up because of injuries. These runners were often helped from the field of play. This action caused a change to the course. This was an unforeseen occurrence that changed the nature of the event.
• The meeting was long, and attendees began to straggle out before the official adjournment, disrupting the planned agenda. This reduced the ability to convey essential information to attendees. The meeting, as a result, failed, as the flow of the conversation had been damaged, leading to delays.