Meaning & Definition of word "Stumble"

Stumble

/ˈstʌmbəl/

noun:

  • 1. An act or instance of stumbling.
    • Example: His stumble during the race cost him valuable time.

verb:

  • 1. To trip or lose one's balance; to walk awkwardly or unsteadily.
    • Example: She stumbled on the uneven pavement and nearly fell.
  • 2. To make a mistake or blunder, especially while speaking or performing.
    • Example: He stumbled over his words during the presentation.
  • 3. To encounter or discover something by chance.
    • Example: I stumbled upon an interesting book in the library.

Etymology

Middle English 'stomblen', from Old English 'stymelian', akin to 'stomp'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

stumble upon:

To find or discover something by accident.

stumble across:

To come upon something unexpectedly or by chance.

stumble through:

To do something without preparation or skill.

Related Words

trip:

To knock against something and fall or lose balance.

fumble:

To handle something clumsily or awkwardly.

fall:

To move downward, typically rapidly and freely without control.

Slang Meanings of stumble

Meaning: To fail at a task or activity.

Example Sentence: He totally stumbled on that test.

Meaning: To make a poor decision or judgment.

Example Sentence: Stumbling big time on that deal.