helpless

adjective

help·less ˈhel-pləs

Southern often ˈhep-ləs,

also ˈheəp-

Synonyms of helpless next

: lacking protection or support : defenseless

as helpless as a flock of shepherdless sheep—

W. H. Mallock

: marked by an inability to act or react

the crowd looked on in helpless horror—

Current Biography

: not able to be controlled or restrained

helpless laughter

helplessly adverb

helplessness noun

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

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

While Chris Smith lay helpless, authorities say Tarr was plotting to silence him forever. —

Erin Moriarty, CBS News, 2 Nov. 2024 This creates a helpless but highly effective kind of suspense, as Iris must rely on her tormentor to mess up, at least until her limbs start to respond again. —

Peter Debruge, Variety, 25 Oct. 2024 Nandor is mostly just helpless without Guillermo and needs to be close to him — a bit like a puppy, to continue the animal metaphor. —

Katie Rife, Vulture, 22 Oct. 2024 According to Orloff, most people on the receiving end of trauma dumping will feel anxious, stressed, helpless and even depressed after the conversation. —

David Oliver, USA TODAY, 23 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for helpless