Definition

An act of handling something clumsily or awkwardly, often resulting in mistakes or confusion.

Example

His fumbling with the keys made him late to the meeting.

Conversation

I saw you fumbling with your keys earlier, were you okay?

Yeah, I just had a moment of clumsiness, nothing serious.

It happens to the best of us; I always end up fumbling with my phone.

Same here! At least it gives us something to laugh about.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To handle something clumsily or awkwardly, often resulting in dropping or mishandling it.

Example

He was fumbling with his keys as he tried to unlock the door.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I saw you fumbling with your keys earlier, were you in a hurry?

Yeah, I was trying to find my car keys before I missed my appointment.

I totally get that; I always end up fumbling when I'm stressed.

Root Explanation

Fumbling → It originates from the Middle English 'fumble', which is of uncertain origin but is thought to be imitative of the action of fumbling or handling clumsily. The word describes the act of handling something clumsily or awkwardly, often resulting in dropping or mishandling it.

Memory Tip

Imagine someone awkwardly 'handling' something and 'fumbling' it — that's why fumbling means to handle clumsily.

Visually Confused Words