oafishness
UK: ˈəʊfɪʃnəs | US: ˈoʊfɪʃnəs
adj. behaving in a clumsy, stupid, or socially awkward manner
n. the quality or state of being oafish
The word "oaf" originates from the Old Norse "álfr" (elf), later evolving in Middle English to "auf" or "ouph," referring to a changeling or a foolish child left by fairies. Over time, "oaf" came to mean a clumsy or stupid person. The suffix "-ish" turns nouns into adjectives (e.g., "childish"), while "-ness" forms abstract nouns indicating a state or quality (e.g., "happiness"). Thus, "oafishness" literally means "the state of being like an oaf"—clumsy or foolish.
His oafishness at the dinner party embarrassed everyone.
Despite his intelligence, he occasionally displays moments of oafishness.
The comedian exaggerated his oafishness for comic effect.
She sighed at the oafishness of her brother's constant blunders.
The manager's oafishness in handling complaints cost the company clients.