The term 'lagged behind' can be described by three crossword solutions: DAWDLED (7 letters), trailed (7 letters), and loitered (8 letters). Dawdling is the act of moving slowly, often in a lazy or aimless manner. Trailing is the act of following someone or something at a distance. Loitering is the act of lingering in an area without any particular purpose. All three words describe the idea of not keeping up with someone or something else, which is the definition of lagging behind.