— flatfootedly , adv. — flatfootedness , n.
/flat"foot"id/ , adj.
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.
4. catch one flatfooted , to catch one unprepared; surprise: The amount of the bill caught us flatfooted.
[ 1595-1605; FLATFOOT + -ED 3 ]