awkwardness
Translation
awkwardness, clumsiness, embarrassment
Examples
There was a moment of awkwardness.
There was a moment of awkwardness.
He laughed to hide his awkwardness.
He laughed to hide his awkwardness.
Grammar Patterns
((of sth.)) a feeling of unease or embarrassment about (sth.) There was an awkwardness about the situation.
((in sth.)) a lack of skill or grace in (sth.) His awkwardness in dancing was obvious.
Similar Words
Synonyms: clumsiness, embarrassment, unease; Antonyms: grace, ease, confidence
Etymology
From the adjective 'awkward' plus the noun-forming suffix '-ness'. 'Awkward' comes from Old Norse 'afugr', meaning 'turned the wrong way'.
Memory Tips
Think of the feeling when you trip in public – that's 'awkwardness'.