Definition

To walk in a clumsy or unsteady way, often dragging one's feet.

Example

After the long hike, he began to shamble back to the campsite.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you see how he shambled into the room?

Yeah, it looked like he was really tired or something.

I wonder if he tripped or just walked that way on purpose.

Could be! Sometimes I shamble when I'm not fully awake.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A way of walking that involves dragging your feet or moving in a slow, awkward manner.

Example

After the long hike, he returned home with a shamble, tired and worn out.

Conversation

Did you see that guy at the park yesterday?

Yeah, he had such a funny shamble when he walked.

I know, right? It was like he was trying to dance or something.

Root Explanation

Shamble originates from the Middle English 'shamble' (meaning to walk awkwardly or unsteadily), which is derived from the Old English 'sceamel' (meaning a stool or a seat). The word describes a way of walking that is unsteady or clumsy, as if one is moving in a disordered manner, similar to how one might move around a stool.

Memory Tip

Imagine someone walking awkwardly around a 'stool' ('sceamel') — this helps you remember that 'shamble' means to walk in a clumsy or unsteady way.

Visually Confused Words