Clunky

Describing something that is awkwardly constructed, heavy, and lacking in grace or ease of movement. It often implies a lack of sophistication, refinement, or streamlined design. The term can apply to physical objects, software interfaces, writing styles, or even movement. A Clunky item is typically cumbersome to use or visually unappealing, often exhibiting rough edges or an outdated aesthetic. This clumsiness hinders the object's usability or detracts from its overall appeal. The impression is often one of a lack of finesse and careful attention to detail. It suggests a utilitarian approach with less emphasis on aesthetics or efficiency of operation.

Clunky meaning with examples

• The old computer's interface was notoriously clunky. Navigating the menus felt slow and frustrating, requiring multiple clicks for simple tasks. The graphics were outdated and the overall experience lacked the fluidity and intuitiveness of modern software. Its archaic design made it difficult to use effectively for more than simple word processing, making the whole process feel outdated and inefficient.
• He tried to walk in his new hiking boots, but they felt Clunky and stiff, restricting his movement on the trail. The heavy soles and high ankles provided support, but made it difficult to navigate uneven terrain. Every step felt labored, highlighting the boots' lack of flexibility and agility. They clearly required a considerable break-in period before feeling comfortable and easy to move in, as a result making the hike much more difficult.
• The screenplay's dialogue was filled with Clunky exposition, forcing the characters to explain plot points rather than letting the story unfold naturally. The clumsy phrasing and unnatural speech patterns immediately took me out of the story and made it seem less than professional. The lack of subtlety made the narrative feel forced and the overall storytelling seemed underdeveloped, lacking the nuance needed to create real human characters.
• The prototype robot's movements were Clunky and uncoordinated. Its actuators whirred loudly as it struggled to perform even basic tasks like picking up an object. The ungainly mechanical design made it appear more like a collection of parts and not a cohesive machine. This lack of graceful movement made the robot less effective, less appealing, and left the user with the impression that more development was clearly needed.