fumbled
Definitions
Failed to catch or hold a ball or object properly.
Handled something clumsily or awkwardly while trying to use or find it.
Spoke in a hesitant or blundering manner.
Examples
The quarterback fumbled the ball just as he was about to throw a touchdown pass.
She fumbled through her purse for several minutes before finally finding her keys.
He fumbled his words during the presentation because he was feeling incredibly nervous.