Definition

Describing someone who is unprepared or unable to react quickly, or having feet that are flat instead of arched.

Example

He felt flatfooted when asked to give a speech without any notice.

Conversation

Did you see how flatfooted she was during that presentation?

Yeah, she really seemed unprepared for the questions.

I guess it caught her off guard, huh?

Definitely! It was surprising to see her so flatfooted.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Flatfooted → It is formed from "flat" (from Old English *flet*, meaning level or even) and "footed" (from the root "foot" which comes from Old English *fōt*, meaning the lower extremity of the leg). The word "flatfooted" describes someone with flat feet or lacking an arch in the foot, often implying clumsiness or inability to move quickly.

Memory Tip

Think of someone with "flat" feet who may not be able to move quickly or gracefully, which helps you remember that "flatfooted" refers to being clumsy or slow.

Visually Confused Words