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Definition of unwieldily

unwieldily

/ʌnˈwiːldɪli/
un · wield · i · ly
Adjective:unwieldy
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unwieldily Lexical Profile

unwieldily Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

In a clumsy, awkward, or cumbersome manner that is difficult to move, handle, or manage due to size, weight, or complexity.

Example

"The overloaded cargo ship maneuvered unwieldily through the narrow harbor channel."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

unwhipped
unwholesome
unwholesomeness
unwieldily
unwieldiness
unwieldy
unwilled

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed from the adjective 'unwieldy' and the adverbial suffix '-ly'. 'Unwieldy' dates back to Middle English and originally meant 'lacking strength' before shifting to mean 'difficult to handle or manage', derived from the Old English verb 'weldan' (to rule or control).

Cite this Entry

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