Definition

In a way that is unsteady or awkward, often due to difficulty in movement or speech.

Example

He walked stumblingly down the path, trying to regain his balance.

Conversation

I saw you walking stumblingly yesterday; everything okay?

Yeah, I just tripped over a small rock, nothing serious.

It looked a bit awkward from a distance!

I know, right? I should really watch my step more carefully.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Stumblingly → It is formed from "stumble" (from Old English *stumblian*, meaning to trip or fall) and the suffix "-ingly" (meaning in a manner of). The word "stumblingly" describes the manner of doing something in a way that involves tripping or faltering.

Memory Tip

Imagine doing something while tripping or faltering — that's what it means to do it 'stumblingly', as if you're moving in a way that suggests you're about to fall.

Visually Confused Words