stumbling
UK: ˈstʌm.blɪŋ | US: ˈstʌm.blɪŋ
vi. 1. tripping or losing balance while walking or moving
vi. 2. making mistakes or proceeding unsteadily (figuratively)
adj. 3. characterized by hesitation or clumsiness
The root "stumbl" derives from Old Norse stumra (to trip) and Proto-Germanic stum- (to bump or obstruct), reflecting physical imbalance. The suffix "-ing" marks continuous action, originally from Old English -ung. Combined, the word paints a vivid picture of repeated tripping or faltering, later extended metaphorically to errors or hesitations.
She kept stumbling over the uneven pavement.
His speech was stumbling, filled with pauses and corrections.
The toddler took a few stumbling steps before falling.
After the injury, his movements were slow and stumbling.
The project progressed in a stumbling manner due to unclear goals.