Klutzy Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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klutzy

[ˈklətsē ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

clumsy behavior

Klutzy describes someone who is prone to accidents and clumsiness. This term is often used to characterize a person who will frequently trip, drop things, or show a lack of coordination in physical activities.

Synonyms

awkward, bumbling, clumsy, gawky.

Examples of usage

  • He's a bit klutzy when it comes to dancing.
  • She spilled her drink because of her klutzy hands.
  • The klutzy waiter dropped the tray full of plates.
  • His klutzy attempts at sports always make us laugh.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • Many comedic characters in TV shows and movies are portrayed as klutzy, bringing humor to awkward situations.
  • The term is often used in children's cartoons to describe characters that constantly get into silly mishaps.
  • Popular video games sometimes feature klutzy characters, which adds to the fun and unpredictability of gameplay.

Psychology

  • Research indicates that clumsiness can be linked to cognitive processing speed; older people might seem more klutzy due to slower reactions.
  • Some studies suggest that being klutzy in childhood can lead to increased social anxiety if it results in bullying or teasing.
  • Psychologists view clumsiness as often associated with creativity, as more creative individuals might be more prone to distractions while developing ideas.

Literature

  • In literature, klutzy characters often illustrate humanity's imperfections, making them relatable to readers.
  • Authors sometimes use klutzy protagonists to drive the plot, highlighting growth and character development through their mishaps.
  • Classic novels frequently feature clumsy characters to represent the theme of social awkwardness or failure.

Everyday Life

  • Many people embrace their klutzy moments, turning them into funny stories to share with friends.
  • Klutzy behavior can often create light-hearted situations in family gatherings or social events.
  • Some sports, like gymnastics or dance, require great coordination, making klutzy individuals experience unique challenges in these fields.

Origin of 'klutzy'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'klutz' comes from Yiddish, a language spoken by Jewish communities in Europe, where it means 'clumsy person'.
  • It entered American English in the mid-20th century, gaining popularity through informal speech.
  • The quirky sound of the word has made it a playful way to describe clumsiness, making it memorable.

The word 'klutzy' is believed to have originated in the early 20th century in American English. It is derived from the Yiddish word 'klots', which means 'a block or lump'. This term was used to describe someone who is physically awkward or clumsy. The informal nature of the word makes it a colloquialism often used in casual conversation. Over time, 'klutzy' has evolved to describe a range of individuals who may not necessarily be hindered by physical disabilities but are simply prone to awkward movements or mishaps. The popularity of 'klutzy' is evident in its frequent use in both spoken and written English, especially in humorous contexts.


Word Frequency Rank

At position #42,027, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.