Definition

In a clumsy or awkward way, often resulting in mistakes or confusion.

Example

He bumblingly tried to explain the instructions but ended up confusing everyone.

Conversation

Did you see how he was bumblingly trying to fix that bike yesterday?

Yeah, it was kind of funny to watch him struggle.

I thought he was going to drop it a few times!

Right? It was a miracle he managed to get it working at all.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Bumblingly → It is formed from "bumble" (of uncertain origin, possibly imitative of a buzzing sound) and the suffix "-ingly" (meaning in a manner of). The word "bumblingly" describes doing something in a clumsy or awkward manner, reminiscent of the way a bumblebee might move.

Memory Tip

Imagine a bumblebee buzzing around clumsily — that's how you can remember that doing something "bumblingly" means doing it in a clumsy way.

Visually Confused Words