fumble
Translation
to fumble, to handle clumsily
Examples
He fumbled for his keys in the dark.
He fumbled for his keys in the dark.
She fumbled her lines during the play.
She fumbled her lines during the play.
The quarterback fumbled the ball.
The quarterback fumbled the ball.
Grammar Patterns
((for sth.)) to search clumsily for (sth.) He fumbled for his wallet.
((with sth.)) to handle (sth.) clumsily She fumbled with the camera.
((sth.)) to drop or mishandle (sth.) The player fumbled the ball.
Similar Words
Synonyms: grope, mishandle, bungle
Etymology
Probably of Scandinavian origin, related to words meaning 'to grope'.
Memory Tips
Imagine trying to find something in a full pocket; you 'fumble' around for it.