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Definition stumble in British English

stumble verb

[intransitive] verb
/ˈstʌmb(ə)l/
1

to fall or almost fall while you are walking or running

Example

Cheryl's horse stumbled, throwing her to the ground.

Example

On his morning run, Derek stumbled over a fallen tree.

Example

She stumbled across the hall and felt for the light switch.

Synonyms and related words
1.1

to move with difficulty and nearly fall because you are tired or ill

Example

Hundreds of refugees stumbled wearily along the road.

Synonyms and related words
2

to make a mistake when you are speaking

Example

Children often stumble when reading aloud.

Example

He was embarrassed, stumbling over the words.

Synonyms and related words
2.1

to make a mistake when you are trying to achieve something

Example

There are plenty of young rivals to take his place if he stumbles.

Synonyms and related words
Definition stumble in British English