What does lagging mean?
Lagging describes something that is behind, delayed, or progressing more slowly than it should. It is commonly used for people or teams whose work is not keeping pace with others, as well as for systems and processes that fall behind schedule. The term also has an important technical use in economics and finance: a lagging indicator reports a change after the relevant trend has already started, so it helps confirm what is happening but does not reliably predict it. In everyday speech, 'lagging behind' is the most frequent construction. The word has a mildly evaluative tone when it describes poor performance, but it can also neutrally describe a normal difference in timing or progress.
Falling behind or delayed in progress, development, or performance.
"The lagging project will need additional staff if it is to meet its deadline."
Commonly used with 'behind,' 'indicator,' and expressions relating to performance or progress.
Present participle of 'lag,' meaning to move or fall behind, especially in progress or performance.
"Several small firms are lagging behind the industry leader."
Usually used with 'behind'; the base forms 'lag,' 'lagged,' and 'lags' are available when the verb itself is needed.
A lagging indicator is named for the trail it leaves behind: it confirms a change only after the trend is already underway.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does lagging come from?
The word comes from the English verb 'lag,' which has long meant to move or fall behind, especially in a race or in progress. The present participle '-ing' was formed in the usual way to create 'lagging,' and the adjective sense developed from the idea of being behind others or behind schedule. 'Laggard,' a person who is slow to act or develop, comes from the same verbal root.
Related word forms
How lagging is actually used
The word is common in both formal and informal contexts. It can be used broadly for people, processes, and measurements, though its technical use with indicators is especially established in economics and finance.
Easily confused with lagging
As an adjective, 'lagging' means delayed or behind, whereas 'lag' is the base verb and noun for falling behind or a period of delay.