Ungainly: meaning, definitions and examples

Describing something or someone that moves in an awkward or uncoordinated way; typically used for things or people that are large or out of proportion.

• The huge bird looked ungainly as it struggled to take flight.
• He made an ungainly attempt to climb the wall.

Describing someone who frequently makes mistakes or has accidents due to a lack of physical coordination; carries a slightly negative connotation.

• She's so clumsy, she always drops things.
• He made a clumsy attempt to apologize.

Referring to a lack of physical coordination or grace, often causing difficulty or discomfort; commonly used in social situations to describe uncomfortable or embarrassing moments.

• The dancer's awkward movements drew criticism.
• Their conversation was filled with awkward silences.

Indicating a lack of elegance or smoothness in movement; often used to describe something or someone performing an action poorly or without finesse.

• Despite her training, her movements were still ungraceful.
• The ungraceful dive earned low scores from the judges.

Used to describe someone or something that moves in a way that is not smooth or elegant, often making them seem uncomfortable.

• The tall teenager felt ungainly on the dance floor.
• The bird's ungainly landing made everyone laugh.

Describes situations or movements that are uncomfortable or lacking in coordination, often creating a feeling of embarrassment.

• The conversation became awkward when no one knew what to say next.
• He managed to carry the large box, although it was an awkward fit through the door.

Used when someone is physically uncoordinated, often resulting in them breaking or dropping things.

• She always felt clumsy while playing sports.
• The clumsy waiter spilled the water all over the table.

Describes movements that lack elegance or smoothness, similar to 'ungainly' but can also imply a lack of poise.

• His ungraceful attempt at ballet made everyone smile.
• She apologized for her ungraceful exit from the room.