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Definition of bumbling

bumbling

/ˈbʌm.blɪŋ/
bum · bling
Adverb:bumblingly
•
Plural:bumblings
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bumbling Lexical Profile

bumbling Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Acting or speaking in a confused, clumsy, or incompetent manner.

Example

"The comedy features a bumbling detective who accidentally solves the mystery through sheer luck."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• noun

1

Clumsy, confused, or incompetent behavior or speech.

Example

"Despite his initial bumbling during the rehearsal, the young actor delivered a confident performance on opening night."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
View all antonyms for bumbling

• Rhymes for bumbling

• Nearby Words

bumble
bumblebee
bumbler
bumbling
bumfuck
bummed
bummer

Word Origin & Etymology

Derived as a participial adjective and gerund from the verb 'bumble', which originated in Middle English from an imitative root meaning to buzz like a bee or to move and speak haltingly.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Bumbling. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/bumbling
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