Definition

The quality of being clumsy or awkward in movement or behavior.

Example

His lubberliness made it difficult for him to navigate through the crowded room without bumping into people.

Conversation

Did you see how clumsy Mark was during the game yesterday?

Yeah, he was really showing some lubberliness out there!

I hope he doesn’t get discouraged by it, though.

Me too! It's just part of his charm, I guess.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Lubberliness is derived from "lubber" (from Middle English *lubber*, meaning a clumsy or lazy person) and the suffix "-liness" (meaning the quality of being). The word describes the quality of being clumsy or lazy, characteristic of a lubber.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'lubber' as someone who is clumsy or lazy, and '-liness' indicates a quality. This helps you remember that 'lubberliness' refers to the quality of being clumsy or lazy.

Visually Confused Words