awkwardness
Definitions
The quality or state of being socially uncomfortable or lacking in grace.
The condition of being difficult to deal with, handle, or manage.
A feeling of embarrassment or unease in a social situation.
Examples
There was a palpable sense of awkwardness in the room after the argument.
He tried to break the awkwardness of the situation with a lighthearted joke.
She smiled to hide her awkwardness during the formal introduction.
Synonyms
clumsiness embarrassment ineptitude gawkiness discomfort ungainliness stiffness