helpless

adjective

help·​less ˈhel-pləs 

Southern often ˈhep-ləs

also ˈheəp-

1

: lacking protection or support : defenseless

… as helpless as a flock of shepherdless sheep …

—W. H. Mallock

2

a

: marked by an inability to act or react

The crowd looked on in helpless horror …

—Current Biography

b

: not able to be controlled or restrained

helpless laughter

helplessly adverb

helplessness noun

Synonyms of helpless

• vulnerable
• susceptible

Examples of helpless in a Sentence

The civilians were helpless against their attackers.

Firefighters were helpless against the blaze.

I feel helpless. Isn't there anything I can do?

The crowd was helpless with laughter.

He was helpless with rage.

Recent Examples on the Web

The law distinguishes that from being physically helpless or incapacitated by drugs administered without consent. — Hallie Golden, Chicago Tribune, 3 Oct. 2026

With defensive backs Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph both sidelined by injury and on the reserve/physically unable to perform list (PUP), Detroit’s defense has been largely helpless. — Andy Behrens, New York Times, 2 Oct. 2026

But passengers don’t have to be helpless during these stressful ordeals. — Jessica Puckett, Condé Nast Traveler, 30 Sep. 2026

Technology can erode privacy, concentrate power, damage the environment, and leave people feeling helpless. — Alison Foreman, IndieWire, 24 Sep. 2026

Word History

Etymology

see help entry 1

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

helpless

adjective

help·​less ˈhel-pləs 

1

: being without defense

2

: powerless

helplessly adverb

helplessness noun