maladroit
UK: ˌmæl.əˈdrɔɪt | US: ˌmæl.əˈdrɔɪt
adj. lacking skill or grace; clumsy or awkward in movement or action.
maladroit = mal<bad> + adroit<skillful>
- mal (from French/Latin malus): Meaning "bad" or "poor."
- adroit (from French à droit): Literally "to the right," historically associated with skill (as right-handedness was culturally favored).
Etymology Origin:
The word maladroit entered English from French in the 17th century, combining mal (bad) with adroit (skillful). Its evolution reflects a literal negation of dexterity—originally tied to physical coordination (right-handedness) but later generalized to incompetence in any context. The pairing mirrors other French-derived opposites like malcontent (dissatisfied) vs. content (satisfied).
His maladroit handling of the delicate vase caused it to shatter.
The politician’s maladroit response to the question worsened the scandal.
She felt maladroit in social situations, often stumbling over her words.
The chef’s maladroit knife skills slowed down the kitchen’s workflow.
Critics panned the actor’s maladroit performance in the play.