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Definitions

powerless

[pou-er-lis] / ˈpaʊ ər lɪs /
ADJECTIVE
helpless; ineffective
Synonyms
STRONGEST
defenseless disenfranchised helpless impotent incapable ineffective ineffectual inert paralyzed passive vulnerable weak
WEAK
blank chicken debilitated dependent epicene etiolated feeble frail gutless incapacitated infirm out of gas prostrate subject supine tied unarmed unfit wimp wishy-washy
Antonyms
STRONGEST
able active capable competent effective lively strong
WEAK
dominant potent powerful

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.

But he was again declared unfit to face criminal proceedings - leaving courts powerless to take his licence away.

From BBC • Apr. 8, 2026

"According to the Quebec government's logic, even in such cases, the courts would not only be powerless but also bound to silence."

From BBC • Mar. 22, 2026

Their main task will be to develop a plan towards reforming a WTO that has proven to be powerless in the face of rising protectionism and largely incapable of negotiating new agreements.

From Barron's • Mar. 20, 2026

Outside of a single playoff victory 15 years ago, the Jets were powerless to stop the Belichick and Brady dynasty that produced six Super Bowl wins.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 29, 2026

That thought made her feel small and powerless.

From "The House of Hades" by Rick Riordan