Langimage
English

clumsiness

|clum-si-ness|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˈklʌmzinəs/

🇬🇧

/ˈklʌmzɪnəs/

(clumsy)

awkward movement

Base FormComparativeSuperlativeVerbAdverb
clumsyclumsierclumsiestconstructclumsily
Etymology
Etymology Information

'clumsy' originates from Scandinavian, specifically the word 'klumsa,' where 'klumsa' meant 'to be numb or stiff.'

Historical Evolution

'klumsa' transformed into the Middle English word 'clomsen,' and eventually became the modern English word 'clumsy.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to be numb or stiff,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'awkward or lacking skill.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

the quality of being awkward or lacking skill.

Her clumsiness was evident when she knocked over the vase.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39