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.

Fifa appears powerless to intervene in the Somali's case.

From BBC • Jun. 9, 2026

The despair and hopelessness are a response to feeling powerless in the face of injustice and watching long-standing norms be routinely broken.

From Salon • May 28, 2026

Within seconds, the vehicle was halted off the 60 Freeway exit at Country Village Road, and the suspect was left as powerless as a rodeo calf on its side.

From Los Angeles Times • May 7, 2026

Nursing-home esidents, in many or most cases, are completely powerless and often isolated.

From MarketWatch • May 5, 2026

Mendigo quivered, hooks jingling, but remained powerless to take hold of Kendra.

From "Fablehaven" by Brandon Mull

powerless

Example Sentences

Related Words