Maladroit

/ˌmæl.əˈdrɔɪt/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

Showing or having skill or ability that is clumsy or ineffective.

His maladroit handling of the situation only made things worse.

Lacking in dexterity or skill; awkward.

She was known for her maladroit attempts at dancing, often stepping on toes.

Unskillful in behavior or manner; socially awkward.

The speaker's maladroit attempt at humor resulted in an uncomfortable silence.

French 'maladroit', from 'mal-' meaning 'bad' + 'adroit' meaning 'skillful'.

maladroit situation

a situation made awkward or difficult due to someone’s clumsiness.

maladroit attempt

an effort that is clumsy or lacking skill.

maladroit behavior

actions characterized by awkwardness or ineptness.

adroit

skillful and adept at handling situations.

clumsiness

the quality of being clumsy; a lack of coordination.

awkward turtle

He felt like an awkward turtle at the party, very maladroit in his interactions.

fumble

She fumbled through her speech, feeling quite maladroit in front of the audience.