Definition

The state of being clumsy or awkward in movement or handling things.

Example

His maladroitness in social situations often made him feel uncomfortable at parties.

Conversation

I really struggled with that dance routine last night.

I noticed! Your maladroitness was quite amusing.

Yeah, I guess I'm just not a natural dancer.

Don't worry, we all have our moments of maladroitness!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Maladroitness → It is formed from "mal-" (meaning bad or ill) and "adroit" (from Old French *adroit*, meaning skilled or dexterous) with the suffix "-ness" (meaning the state of being). The word "maladroitness" refers to the state of being clumsy or lacking skill.

Memory Tip

Think of 'mal-' meaning bad and 'adroit' meaning skilled — so 'maladroitness' describes the state of being not skilled or clumsy.

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