galumph

Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day for July 2, 2025 is "galumph", a verb that means to move in a loud and clumsy way. The word can be used to describe someone or something moving awkwardly, making a lot of noise in the process. For example, you could hear someone galumphing around in the attic while searching for old family photo albums. The word "galumph" was first used by Lewis Carroll in his 1872 book "Through the Looking Glass", where he described the actions of the vanquisher of the Jabberwock. Carroll likely created the word by combining "gallop" and "triumphant", as it originally conveyed a sense of exultant bounding. In its early uses, "galumph" described a triumphant and celebratory movement. The word gained popularity among 19th-century writers, who used it in their own writing, and it has remained in the English language ever since. Today, "galumph" can be used to describe a wide range of clumsy movements, from dragons moving awkwardly on the sand to people making a racket while searching for something. The word is often used to add a touch of whimsy and humor to writing. Overall, "galumph" is a unique and evocative word that can add depth and character to one's writing.