Lagging behind; taking more time than the others in a group.
(animal husbandry) Not growing as quickly as the rest of the flock or herd.
The laggard broilers are euthanized and incinerated.
noun
One who lags behind; one who takes more time than is necessary or than the others in a group.
1733, William Havard, Scanderbeg: A Tragedy, London: J. Watts, Act II, Scene 4, p. 17,
Blushing I look upon my poor Resolves,
A Laggard in the Race, and faintly striving
To follow Excellence that soars so high.
1891, Rudyard Kipling, Letters of Marque, New York & Boston: H.M. Caldwell, 1899, Chapter 12, p. 141,
The State line, with the comparatively new branch to the Pachbadra salt-pits, pays handsomely, and is exactly suited to the needs of its users. True, there is a certain haziness as to the hour of starting, but this allows laggards more time, and fills the packed carriages to overflowing.