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Definitions

helpless

[help-lis] / ˈhɛlp lɪs /
ADJECTIVE
incapable, incompetent; vulnerable
Synonyms
STRONGEST
defenseless destitute forlorn impotent paralyzed powerless unable unprotected vulnerable weak
STRONG
incapable incompetent
WEAK
abandoned basket-case debilitated dependent exposed feeble forsaken friendless handcuffed inefficient inexpert infirm invalid over a barrel pinned prostrate shiftless tapped tapped out unfit up creek without paddle with hands tied
Antonyms
STRONGEST
able capable fit potent powerful secure strong
WEAK
competent enterprising independent resourceful skilled

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Living in cramped, windowless containers and only able to leave for serious medical emergencies, she said inhabitants "felt helpless" during the Iranian attacks.

From Barron's • Apr. 27, 2026

One of the dark ideas of the novel is that the aristocracy’s moral and spiritual bankruptcy left them helpless in the face of Europe’s rising totalitarian ideologies.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 8, 2026

“If you’re feeling helpless, if you’re feeling hopeless, if you’re feeling betrayed, if you’re feeling frustrated, if you’re feeling angry — I mean, I know I’ve been,” he said.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 8, 2026

Many of our children’s favorite apps and social-media sites were built from the ground up to keep young users hooked and helpless to look away, consequences to their health and well-being be damned.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 27, 2026

Percy felt helpless, barely connected to the world.

From "The House of Hades" by Rick Riordan