Ungainly

Adjective

Definition: Awkward or clumsy, especially in movement or appearance.

Synonyms: Awkward, Clumsy, Ungainful, Graceless, Ungraceful

Antonyms: Graceful, Agile, Nimble

Examples:

The tall man with long limbs was often seen as ungainly as he stumbled through the crowded room.
The dancer's ungainly movements on stage drew gasps from the audience.

Mnemonics:

Think of the word "ungainly" as combining "un" (meaning not) and "gainly" (which is not a real word but sounds similar to "gains"). So, someone who is ungainly lacks gracefulness or gains in their movements.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "ungainly" comes from the Middle English word "ungaynely," which was derived from the Old Norse word "ungegneligr." It combines the prefix "un-" (indicating negation) and the root word "gainly," meaning convenient, suitable, or fitting.

Historical Usage:

The term has been used since the late 15th century to describe someone or something that lacks grace or is awkward in movement or appearance.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Move with ungainly strides"

Explanation:

Refers to a person walking or moving in an ungraceful and awkward manner.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "ungainly" with "ungraceful" or "clumsy."

Explanation:

While "ungainly" shares similarities with these words, it specifically refers to awkwardness in movement or appearance, rather than a lack of elegance or coordination.