'gawkiness' originates from English, specifically from the adjective 'gawky' plus the nominalizing suffix '-ness'. 'gawky' itself derives from 'gawk' (a noun/verb).

'gawk' appeared in Middle English as 'gauk(e)' meaning 'a fool' or 'to gape/stare'; this led to the adjective 'gawky' (meaning awkward or ungainly) and eventually the noun 'gawkiness' (the state of being gawky). The origin of Middle English 'gauk' is uncertain but has been linked to imitative formations and possibly Old Norse 'gaukr' (a bird name used figuratively).

Initially associated with a foolish person or staring/gaping behaviour, the sense shifted to physical awkwardness and ungainly movement; today 'gawkiness' primarily means awkwardness or clumsiness.