The term CLIMBED AWKWARDLY can be broken down into two crossword solutions: SHINNIED (8 letters) and CLAMBERED (9 letters). To shinny is to climb up a tree or pole by wrapping one's arms and legs around it. Clambering is a more awkward form of climbing, usually involving using hands and feet to scramble up a steep surface. Both terms describe an awkward form of climbing, which is what the term CLIMBED AWKWARDLY implies.