fum·ble 
/ˈfʌmbəl/ verb
fum·bles; fum·bled; fum·bling /ˈfʌmbəl/ verb 1 [no obj] : to search for something by reaching or touching with your fingers in an awkward or clumsy way
▪ She fumbled in her pocket for her keys. ▪ He fumbled (around) for the light switch. — often used figuratively ▪ She fumbled for an answer but couldn't think of one. 2 : to handle something in an awkward or clumsy way [no obj] — usually + with ▪ She fumbled with her keys as she tried to unlock the door. [+ obj] ▪ They fumbled a good opportunity to take control of the market. 3 sports : to fail to catch or hold the ball [no obj] ▪ He was hit hard and fumbled on the 20-yard line. [+ obj] ▪ He fumbled the ball on the 20-yard line.
▪ She fumbled in her pocket for her keys. ▪ He fumbled (around) for the light switch. — often used figuratively ▪ She fumbled for an answer but couldn't think of one.
— fumble noun, plural fumbles [count]
▪ (American football) He had one fumble during last week's game.
▪ (American football) He had one fumble during last week's game.
— fum·bler noun, plural fum·blers [count]
— fumbling adjective
▪ He made a fumbling attempt to explain his behavior.
▪ He made a fumbling attempt to explain his behavior.
