Search Dictionary
Definition of awkwardly

awkwardly

/ˈɔːk.wɚd.li/
awk · ward · ly
Adjective:awkward
JUMP TO:

awkwardly Lexical Profile

awkwardly Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

In a manner showing or causing social discomfort, embarrassment, or self-consciousness.

Example

"He smiled awkwardly when he realized he had forgotten her name."

2

In a manner lacking physical grace, coordination, or skill; clumsily.

Example

"The newborn calf stood up awkwardly on its wobbling legs."

3

In an inconvenient, difficult, or poorly positioned manner.

Example

"The heavy sofa was angled awkwardly in the narrow stairwell."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for awkwardly
Antonyms
View all antonyms for awkwardly

• Nearby Words

awfulness
awhile
awkward
awkwardly
awkwardness
awl
awlbill

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed from the adjective 'awkward' plus the adverbial suffix '-ly'. The base word originates in Middle English as an adverb meaning 'turned the wrong way', combining Old Norse 'ǫfugr' (turned backward) with the directional suffix '-ward'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Awkwardly. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/awkwardly
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.