Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Showing results for helpless.
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.

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

"I can't imagine how helpless people must have been," she said between heavy sighs, adding: "I really regret that I didn't knock on a single door."

From Barron's • Mar. 24, 2026

She adds that Covid left young people feeling helpless as they tried to manage the transition from full-time education to the workplace and missed out on work experience because of lockdown.

From BBC • Mar. 18, 2026

Team USA’s vaunted offense looked helpless against veteran Michael Lorenzen.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 12, 2026

I feel so helpless that I can't even understand what a lullaby means.

From "Born Behind Bars" by Padma Venkatraman