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.

Jonathan felt far more helpless, knowing he had to wait for help to come to him, than he had felt when there was some action he could take.

From Literature

And he didn’t take it Sunday night in Santa Clara, after his Seahawks scooted away from a helpless New England Patriots team in a one-sided 29-13 win.

From The Wall Street Journal

But it was better than standing around and feeling helpless.

From Literature

The player known as “JSN” left most defenses helpless and finished the season with 1,793 receiving yards, the eighth highest total in a single season.

From The Wall Street Journal

“He felt helpless that he couldn’t do anything to help me. I felt helpless because I felt like I didn’t have a choice anymore,” she said.

From The Wall Street Journal

helpless

Example Sentences

Related Words