awkward
|awk-ward|
🇺🇸
/ˈɔːkwərd/
🇬🇧
/ˈɔːkwəd/
clumsy or uncomfortable
Etymology
'awkward' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'awkeward,' where 'awk' meant 'backward' and '-ward' indicated direction.
'awkeward' transformed into the modern English word 'awkward' through Middle English.
Initially, it meant 'turned the wrong way,' but over time it evolved into its current meanings of 'clumsy' and 'uncomfortable.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
lacking grace or ease in movement or manner.
He felt awkward during the dance.
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Adjective 2
causing or feeling embarrassment or inconvenience.
There was an awkward silence after his comment.
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Adjective 3
difficult to handle or deal with.
The situation became awkward when they disagreed.
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Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39