awkwardness
|awk-ward-ness|
B2
🇺🇸
/ˈɔːkwərdnəs/
🇬🇧
/ˈɔːkwədnəs/
(awkward)
clumsy or uncomfortable
Etymology
Etymology Information
'awkwardness' originates from the Middle English word 'awkeward,' where 'awk' meant 'backward' and '-ward' indicated direction.
Historical Evolution
'awkeward' transformed into the modern English word 'awkward,' and eventually 'awkwardness' was derived from it.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'turned the wrong way,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'lacking grace or ease.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the quality of being awkward; lacking grace or ease in movement or manner.
Her awkwardness was evident when she tripped over her own feet.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39