The term 'AWKWARD SORT' can be broken down into two crossword solutions, 'LOUT' and 'GALOOT'. 'LOUT' is a four-letter word meaning an ill-mannered or uncouth person. It is derived from the Middle English word 'loute', which means 'low person'. 'GALOOT' is a six-letter word meaning a clumsy or boorish person. It is derived from the Scottish word 'galut', which means 'clumsy fellow'. Together, these two words describe an awkward sort of person.