waddle

USAGE SUMMARY

The part of the phrase "waddle" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a specific way of walking, typically associated with a clumsy or awkward gait, often resembling the movement of a duck. Example: "The toddler began to waddle across the room, her arms outstretched for balance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"No sugar!" people shout, as you waddle off to make another interminable cup of tea for them.

The Guardian - Opinion

Clashing capos Maroni and Falcone bring all-out war to the streets of Gotham in the first-season finale, unaware that it's all part of Penguin's scheme to create a power vacuum into which he can triumphantly waddle.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

His dancers waddle, with torsos torqued and arms spread, and then extend a pointed leg and pause.

The Economist

They will also be expected to prepare "living wills", setting out how they could be liquidated in the event of failure".There's a real risk we end up so laden with capital that we can't waddle and fart at the same time," says a Wall Street grandee.

The Economist

Because Mr Foster has refused to hold a debate with his three main rivals, Mr Preis has paid a man to dress up in a bird-suit and waddle about at meetings as "Debate Duck".Still, hardly anybody gives any of the three a chance of beating Mr Foster.

The Economist

But the penguins, with their feet far to the rear of their bodies, stand upright as they waddle along.

Encyclopedia Britannica

When the Adélie penguin makes its trek of many miles over the snow-covered ice to its breeding grounds, it may vary its awkward waddle with periods of tobogganing i.e., sliding along on its breast and propelling itself with thrusts of its feet.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Coots and gallinules flock like ducks, swim in open water, and waddle conspicuously on shore.

Encyclopedia Britannica

They waddle on land but are expert fliers, alternating rapid wing beats with gliding.

Encyclopedia Britannica

A less nice person, like me,  always thought Camila could save on her chauffeur bill and use an Oyster card like every other busy person in London, if only she wasn't so obese that – as the show proved – she could barely waddle 100 consecutive metres.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Some tracks do fly Waddle-wide of the mark – though "Wavin' Flag" is not the only song here to hit the back of the net.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "waddle" to vividly describe a specific type of walking that is clumsy and swaying, often due to physical characteristics or limitations. It adds a descriptive element that is more expressive than simply saying 'walk'.

Common error

Be mindful not to use "waddle" when describing actions that are generally clumsy but not specifically related to walking. For instance, avoid saying someone "waddled" while trying to catch a ball; instead, use terms like 'fumbled' or 'stumbled'.

Linguistic Context

Waddle primarily functions as a verb describing a specific manner of walking characterized by short steps and a swaying motion. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is usable in written English. It can also function as a noun, referring to the gait itself.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Encyclopedias

13%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Science

34%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "waddle" is a versatile word, functioning both as a verb and a noun, to describe a distinctive, often clumsy, swaying gait. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. While frequently found in descriptive contexts, especially in news and media, and in encyclopedias, it is less common in strictly formal writing. When using "waddle", consider its connotation of clumsiness and choose it when you want to vividly depict this type of movement. Alternatives like "shuffle" or "stagger" may be suitable depending on the nuance you intend to convey. Remember to use "waddle" to add a descriptive element when you want to emphasize the specific type of swaying walk.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

paddle

Suggests a way of walking awkwardly, similar to waddling.

coggle

Similar to toddle, but with a sense of unsteadiness

shuffle

Describes a slow, dragging walk, often due to tiredness or infirmity. It emphasizes the lack of lifting the feet.

totter

Suggests an unsteady, teetering gait, often seen in elderly people or those learning to walk, emphasizing instability.

hobble

Implies walking with difficulty due to an injury or impediment, highlighting the painful or restricted movement.

stagger

Implies unsteadiness while walking, often due to intoxication or weakness, suggesting a lack of balance.

dodder

Suggests a frail, unsteady walk, typically associated with old age, emphasizing the lack of coordination and stability.

trudge

Similar to plod, but with a stronger sense of determination or resignation, suggesting a difficult journey.

lumber

Indicates a heavy, clumsy movement, often associated with large or bulky individuals, highlighting the weight and difficulty in movement.

plod

Conveys a slow, laborious walk, often due to exhaustion or difficult terrain, emphasizing the effort involved.

FAQs

How can I describe a similar movement to "waddle"?

You can use alternatives like "shuffle", "stagger", or "totter" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "waddle" only used to describe the way birds walk?

No, while "waddle" is often associated with birds like ducks and penguins, it can also describe the way humans or other animals walk if their gait is similar – that is, short steps with a swaying motion.

What part of speech is "waddle"?

"Waddle" can be both a verb and a noun. As a verb, it describes the act of walking in a waddling manner. As a noun, it refers to the swaying gait itself.

Can "waddle" be used in formal writing?

While "waddle" is generally acceptable, it's more common in descriptive or informal contexts. In formal writing, consider whether a more neutral term like "move unsteadily" or "walk with a swaying gait" might be more appropriate.