fumble
verb (used without object)
to feel or grope about clumsily.
fumbled
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past participleof fumble.past participle
A verb form used in perfect and passive verb constructions and that can also function as a modifier.
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past tense formof fumble.past tense
Used to describe completed actions or previous habitual actions.
fumbleverb (used without object)to feel or grope about clumsily.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Tight end Tyler Higbee fumbled after catching a pass with 11:08 left, and the 49ers added a field goal to extend the lead to 20 points.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 11, 2026
However, Europeans fumbled perhaps their best chance to change the momentum when Icelanders voted narrowly on Aug. 29 against resuming negotiations on entering the European Union.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 7, 2026
The company, which offers credit cards used to make rent and mortgage payments, had fumbled a critical transition, leading to confusion and financial stress for its customers.
From Salon ● Sep. 1, 2026
Quarterback Justin Herbert fumbled a handoff to running back Omarion Hampton on the Chargers’ second play from scrimmage, leading to a Rams field goal.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 28, 2026
He fumbled unfolding it, one edge of the paper getting stuck against the other side.
From "Found" by Margaret Peterson Haddix
