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Home/USA Today Rootonym/Generally awkward, clumsy; lacking skill or aptitude, esp. for a particular task (adjective)

Generally awkward, clumsy; lacking skill or aptitude, esp. for a particular task (adjective)

Nora WhitfieldNora Whitfield Crossword Editor · Verified answers

Looking for the answer to the USA Today Rootonym clue “Generally awkward, clumsy; lacking skill or aptitude, esp. for a particular task (adjective)”? The solution is INEPT, a 5-letter word built on the root EPT (“fit, join”). It appeared in the November 15, 2026 (Sunday) USA Today Rootonym. See the full puzzle for that day's other words.

Answer
INEPT
**EPTEPTmeans “fit, join”
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In a sentence

Fred recognized his INEPT ability to properly seal pipes and called a plumber.

About this clue

The Rootonym clue “Generally awkward, clumsy; lacking skill or aptitude, esp. for a particular task (adjective)” has the answer INEPT (5 letters), built on the root EPT, which means “fit, join”. Browse the full November 15, 2026 Rootonym puzzle for the other three words, or see all Rootonym answers.

Related clues from this puzzle

A unit expressing the energy-producing value in food (noun) Able to use both hands equally well and with ease (adjective) Something suspended, especially a hanging jewel or ornament (noun)
Browse all Rootonym puzzles →
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