First Known Use: 1685
Dictionary
maladroit
adjective mal·adroit \ˌma-lə-ˈdrȯit\
: very awkward : not skillful or adroit
Full Definition of MALADROIT
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Origin of MALADROIT
French, from Middle French, from mal- + adroit
Related to MALADROIT
- Synonyms
- awkward, butterfingered, cack-handed [British], graceless, ham-fisted, ham-handed, handless, heavy-handed, left-handed, clumsy, unhandy
- Antonyms
- deft, dexterous (also dextrous), handy, sure-handed
Synonym Discussion of MALADROIT
awkward, clumsy, maladroit, inept, gauche mean not marked by ease (as of performance, movement, or social conduct). awkward is widely applicable and may suggest unhandiness, inconvenience, lack of muscular control, embarrassment, or lack of tact <periods of awkward silence>. clumsy implies stiffness and heaviness and so may connote inflexibility, unwieldiness, or lack of ordinary skill <a clumsy mechanic>. maladroit suggests a tendency to create awkward situations <a maladroit politician>. inept often implies complete failure or inadequacy <a hopelessly inept defense attorney>. gauche implies the effects of shyness, inexperience, or ill breeding <felt gauche and unsophisticated at formal parties>.
Rhymes with MALADROIT
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