flatfooted

[ flat-foot-id ]

adjective

1. having flatfeet.
2. taking or showing an uncompromising stand in a matter; firm and explicit:

   a flatfooted denial.

3. clumsy or plodding; maladroit:

   flatfooted writing.

Other Words From

• flatfooted·ly adverb
• flatfooted·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of flatfooted¹

First recorded in 1595–1605; flatfoot + -ed ³

Idioms and Phrases

Idioms

1. catch one flatfooted, to catch one unprepared; surprise:

   The amount of the bill caught us flatfooted.

Example Sentences

The popularity of this simple "freedom" framework can be seen in how flatfooted the Trump campaign has been responding to Harris's nomination.

From Salon

The Trump campaign was caught flatfooted, or flat golf carted, take your pick.

From Salon

Three eye-catching uppercuts in a row troubled Cordina in the sixth and, flatfooted, he was backed into the ropes in the seventh and the referee had seen enough in the following round after another barrage of punches.

From BBC

While Israel’s highly regarded security and intelligence services were clearly caught flatfooted by Hamas’ ability to breach its Gaza defenses, the group appears to have hidden its extensive preparations for the deadly assault in plain sight.

From Washington Times

While Israel’s highly regarded security and intelligence services were clearly caught flatfooted by Hamas’ ability to breach its Gaza defenses, the group appears to have hidden its extensive preparations for the deadly assault in plain sight.

From Seattle Times