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.

I once openly cheered as Clark raced down the court, dribbled behind her back, skated past a helpless defender, and drained a three-pointer.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 7, 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 understand,” he said.

From Salon • May 29, 2026

"It's very difficult and you can feel a bit helpless," he admitted.

From BBC • May 26, 2026

But then this creepy production says much more about the power directors have, particularly in Germany, to abuse helpless operas than the work’s central theme: the power of music to overcome even death.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 7, 2026

But the deals people made with Nansi never quite ended well for them, as they usually found themselves on the short end of the stick—cheated and helpless.

From "Kwame Crashes the Underworld" by Craig Kofi Farmer

helpless

Example Sentences

Related Words