Question

beginning in the 3rd century, rome was developing a "soft belly." what does that mean?

Answer 1

What it means by "Rome was developing a soft belly" is that Rome was going through harsh times and problems.

Answer 2

Based on the given line above which is Rome was developing a "soft belly" beginning in the 3rd century, this means that the Romans became lazy. On the other hand, "soft belly" also means having a harsh time or problems. During this time, The Romans become lazy and that was one of the reasons for the fall of Rome.