fumble Synonyms
Another word for fumble
• verb (Context 1)
To use the hands clumsily while doing or handling something, or to grope about awkwardly in search of an object.
"He fumbled in his coat pockets for the train ticket while the conductor waited patiently."
• noun (Context 2)
An instance of dropping a ball after having possession of it, or failing to catch or field a ball cleanly (especially in American football, baseball, or cricket).
"The running back's costly muff in the fourth quarter cost the team their lead."
• verb (Context 3)
To drop or fail to catch or field a ball cleanly after touching or having possession of it (especially in sports such as American football or baseball).
"The quarterback fumbled the snap just yards away from the goal line."
• noun (Context 4)
An act of handling, searching for, or dealing with something in a clumsy, awkward, or ineffective manner.
"After a brief bungle with the house keys, she finally managed to unlock the front door."
• verb (Context 5)
To express oneself or deal with a situation, task, or opportunity in an awkward, confused, or ineffective way.
"The nervous speaker fumbled for the right words when asked an unexpected question."
Opposites of fumble
The opposite of fumble shifts depending on context. Common opposites include: