rhizoverbBeta
DictionarymuffClumsy mistake
noun / verb

muff

MUFF/mˈʌf/

A mistake made through clumsy handling or performance.

Her muff of the catch lets the softball slip between her hands.

A woman clumsily fumbles a catch: a softball slips between her badly positioned hands as she looks down in startled dismay.
Etymology
muffEnglishan awkward person

The verb and mistake noun developed from the slang label for an awkward person. Its possible connection with the hand-warmer remains uncertain.

In context

Gridiron Data Digest2:02
might muff the ball if they don't secure it properly.
What Is A Muff In Football Kick Coverage? - Gridiron Data Digest

More examples

  • I muff my opening line and start again.
  • He muffed the catch, and the ball rolled away.
  • They keep muffing the simplest steps in rehearsal.

Forms

muff · muffs · muffed · muffing

Similar words

bungle
Emphasizes performing a task badly, not necessarily through physical clumsiness.
fumble
Usually involves awkward handling, especially with the hands.
blunder
Suggests a serious mistake in judgment rather than coordination.