flatfooted

American  

[flat-foot-id] / ˈflætˈfʊt ɪd /

adjective

1. having flatfeet.

2. taking or showing an uncompromising stand in a matter; firm and explicit.

   a flatfooted denial.

3. clumsy or plodding; maladroit.

   flatfooted writing.

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idioms

1. catch one flatfooted,  to catch one unprepared; surprise.

   The amount of the bill caught us flatfooted.

Other Word Forms

• flatfootedly adverb
• flatfootedness noun

Etymology

Origin of flatfooted

First recorded in 1595–1605; flatfoot + -ed ³

Example Sentences

Grabbing rebounds flatfooted, blocking shots and making every shot he took, Mara powered the Bruins to an 85-83 triumph over No. 18 Wisconsin at Pauley Pavilion, ending the Badgers’ seven-game winning streak while announcing that the Bruins could contend with an opponents’ size.

From Los Angeles Times

He could shoot with both hands, touch the ground flatfooted while hanging on the rim.

From Los Angeles Times

The popularity of this simple "freedom" framework can be seen in how flatfooted the Trump campaign has been responding to Harris's nomination.

From Salon

The Trump campaign was caught flatfooted, or flat golf carted, take your pick.

From Salon

Three eye-catching uppercuts in a row troubled Cordina in the sixth and, flatfooted, he was backed into the ropes in the seventh and the referee had seen enough in the following round after another barrage of punches.

From BBC