What does awkward mean?
Awkward means Lacking dexterity in the use of the hands, or of instruments..
Awkward
/ˈɔːk.wəd/ · adjective
Meaning
Lacking dexterity in the use of the hands, or of instruments..
Definitions by Sense
- Lacking dexterity in the use of the hands, or of instruments.
- Not easily managed or effected; embarrassing.
- Lacking social skills, or uncomfortable with social interaction.
- Perverse; adverse; difficult to handle.
- Someone or something that is awkward.
Example Sentences
John was awkward at performing the trick. He'll have to practice to improve.
That was an extremely awkward moment. Everyone was watching.
An awkward silence had fallen.
I'm very awkward at parties.
Things got awkward when my boss tried a cheesy pick-up line on me.
He's a right awkward chap.
These cabinets are going to be very awkward when we move.
Clearing up rock and fallen vegetation at such an awkward site required a team of specialist geoengineers.
Synonyms for awkward
Antonyms for awkward
Related Words
Word Forms
- more awkward
- most awkward
- awkwards
Usage Notes
Choose a synonym only when it preserves the intended meaning, tone, and grammar of the full sentence.
Practice and Learn More
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a synonym for awkward?
Common synonyms include clumsy, lubberly, ungraceful, unhandy.
What is the opposite of awkward?
Possible antonyms include dexterous, gainly, graceful, handy.
How do you use awkward in a sentence?
John was awkward at performing the trick. He'll have to practice to improve.
Sources & Attribution
FreeDictionaryAPI.com / Wiktionary · Original source · CC BY-SA 4.0
Dictionary data is provided by FreeDictionaryAPI.com and sourced from Wiktionary under its stated license.