gangly

This word carries a specific visual of disproportion. It describes a person whose limbs seem too long for their torso, creating a sense of fragility combined with clumsiness. It is more descriptive of a physical silhouette than a general state of being thin. While words like slender or lithe suggest grace and elegance, gangly suggests a lack of control. It is often used with a tone of gentle sympathy or mild amusement, particularly when describing teenagers who have not yet grown into their bodies.