Gawky

/ˈɡɔːki/ adjective

Definition

Tall, awkward, and clumsy in movement, like a person who hasn't quite grown into their body yet.

Etymology

From 'gawk,' derived from Middle English and possibly related to Old Norse 'gaukr' meaning cuckoo (a bird known for awkward movements); the suffix '-y' makes it an adjective.

Kelly Says

Most teenagers are gawky—it's actually a sign that growth hormones are working overtime, which is why your favorite actor probably looked like a baby giraffe at age 14 before becoming graceful in their 20s!

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