How Do You Spell GAWKILY?

Pronunciation: [ɡˈɔːkilɪ] (IPA)

Gawkily is a nine-letter word with three syllables. It is pronounced [gawk-uh-lee], with stress on the second syllable. The first syllable "gawk" is spelled with a "g" followed by an "a" which creates a "gah" sound. The second syllable is spelled with a "w" and an "uh" sound. The final syllable is "lee" which is spelled with a "l" followed by a long "e" sound. When used to describe someone, gawkily means to be clumsy or awkward in one's movements.

GAWKILY Meaning and Definition

  1. Gawkily is an adverb that describes an act or behavior as awkward, clumsy, or lacking in grace or finesse. It derives from the adjective "gawky," which refers to someone or something that is physically inelegant or ungainly in appearance or movement.

    When someone is described as gawkily, it suggests that their actions are typically uncoordinated, lacking in polish, or characterized by a lack of fluidity or natural ease. It often implies a sense of clumsiness or a noticeable lack of coordination, resulting in awkward or ungainly movements.

    For example, a person with gawkily long limbs might struggle to navigate through tight spaces without bumping into things. Similarly, someone who is inexperienced in dance might move gawkily on the dance floor, lacking the smoothness and grace of a trained dancer.

    In social situations, gawkily refers to behaviors that are socially awkward or lacking in social finesse. It can describe someone who struggles with making eye contact, has difficulty initiating or maintaining conversations, or exhibits klutzy or awkward body language.

    Overall, gawkily describes actions or behaviors that are noticeably lacking in smoothness, elegance, or coordination, often leading to an impression of awkwardness or clumsiness.

Common Misspellings for GAWKILY

Etymology of GAWKILY

The word "gawkily" is derived from the base word "gawky" which originated in the early 18th century. The term "gawky" is believed to have its roots in Scottish dialect, possibly a variant of the word "gauche" which means "awkward" or "clumsy" in French. Over time, "gawky" evolved into "gawkily" by adding the adverbial suffix "-ly", indicating a manner or quality.

Similar spelling word for GAWKILY

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