Slowpoke

/ˈsloʊpoʊk/ noun

Definition

A person who moves or acts slowly; someone who is habitually late or takes their time with tasks.

Etymology

American slang combining 'slow' with 'poke' (from 'poky' meaning slow). Originated in the United States around the 1800s as a playful, mildly derogatory term.

Kelly Says

The word 'slowpoke' reveals how American culture values speed—we invented a whole insult for people who move slowly, yet studies show that fast-paced living increases stress and anxiety, so maybe slowpokes have figured out something we haven't.

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