This is the 5371st most frequent Dutch word.
laak
"Laak" in Dutch can mean a small river or stream, or it can refer to blame or fault.
In this sentence, 'laak' refers to a geographical feature, specifically a small stream or brook.
Hij woont vlak bij de laak.
He lives near the stream.
Here, 'laakbaar' is an adjective derived from 'laak', meaning blame or fault, used to describe something morally objectionable.
Zijn gedrag is absoluut laakbaar.
His behavior is absolutely reprehensible.
In this context, 'laak' signifies culpability or blame related to an unfavorable situation.