clumsy

Definition from Wiktionary, the free dictionary
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English[edit]

Etymology[edit]

Possibly from an alteration of clumsed (benumbed) or from clumse (a stupid fellow; lout) +‎ -y. More at clumse.

Pronunciation[edit]

  • (UK, US) IPA(key): /ˈklʌmzi/
  • (file)

Adjective[edit]

clumsy (comparative clumsier, superlative clumsiest)

  1. Awkward, lacking coordination, not graceful, not dextrous.
    He's very clumsy. I wouldn't trust him with carrying the dishes.
  2. Not elegant or well-planned, lacking tact or subtlety.
    It is a clumsy solution, but it might work for now.
    What a clumsy joke...
  3. Awkward or inefficient in use or construction, difficult to handle or manage especially because of shape.

Translations[edit]

The translations below need to be checked and inserted above into the appropriate translation tables, removing any numbers. Numbers do not necessarily match those in definitions. See instructions at Wiktionary:Entry layout#Translations.

Noun[edit]

clumsy (plural clumsies)

  1. (informal, fairly rare) A clumsy person.
    • 1934, P. L. Travers, Mary Poppins
      “Well, you are a clumsy,” said Ellen, as she bent down to mop up the water. “That was for your father’s shaving.”

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