Definition of fumble
fumbled
;fumbling
play \ˈfəm-b(ə-)liŋ\intransitive verb
1a : to grope for or handle something clumsily or aimlesslyb : to make awkward attempts to do or find something fumbled in his pocket for a coinc : to search by trial and errord : blunder
2 : to feel one's way or move awkwardly
3a : to drop or juggle or fail to play cleanly a grounderb : to lose hold of a football while handling or running with it
transitive verb
1 : to bring about by clumsy manipulation
2a : to feel or handle clumsilyb : to deal with in a blundering way : bungle
3 : to make (one's way) in a clumsy manner
4a : misplay fumble a grounderb : to lose hold of (a football) while handling or running
Explore M-W
Examples of fumble in a Sentence
She fumbled in her pocket for her keys.
They fumbled a good opportunity to take control of the market.
He was hit hard and fumbled on the 20-yard line.
He fumbled the ball on the 20-yard line.
Origin and Etymology of fumble
probably of Scandinavian origin; akin to Swedish fumla to fumble
First Known Use: 1534
Examples of fumble in a Sentence
played the entire piano piece without a single fumble
1634
First Known Use of fumble
1634
FUMBLE Defined for English Language Learners
fumble
playDefinition of fumble for English Language Learners
-
: to search for something by reaching or touching with your fingers in an awkward or clumsy way
-
: to handle something in an awkward or clumsy way
-
sports : to fail to catch or hold the ball
FUMBLE Defined for Kids
Definition of fumble for Students
fumbled
;fumbling
1 : to feel about for or handle something in a clumsy way He fumbled in his pockets.
2 : to lose hold of the ball in football
Definition of fumble for Students
: an act of losing hold of the ball in football
Learn More about fumble
-
See words that rhyme with fumble Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for fumble Spanish Central: Translation of fumble Nglish: Translation of fumble for Spanish speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about fumble
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up fumble? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Writing? Check your grammar now!