slippage
UK: ˈslɪpɪdʒ | US: ˈslɪpɪdʒ
n. the act or instance of slipping or sliding
n. a gradual decline or reduction (e.g., in performance, value)
n. a mechanical loss of motion due to slipping (engineering)
The word "slippage" combines "slip," derived from Middle English slippen (to glide or lose footing), with the suffix "-age," borrowed from Old French -age (denoting action or result). The root "slip" traces back to Proto-Germanic slipaną, reflecting the core idea of smooth, uncontrolled movement. The suffix "-age" systematizes the concept into a measurable outcome (e.g., "leakage" from "leak"). Originally tied to physical sliding, "slippage" expanded metaphorically to describe declines in abstract domains like economics or performance.
The car’s tires showed significant slippage on the icy road.
Investors worried about the slippage in the company’s quarterly profits.
Engineers minimized gear slippage in the machine’s design.
There was a noticeable slippage in attendance after the policy change.
The contract included clauses to prevent budget slippage.