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Defenseless Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ˜”
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defenseless

[dษชหˆfษ›nslษ™s ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

feeling vulnerable

Without protection from harm or danger; easily attacked or harmed; lacking the ability to defend oneself.

Synonyms

exposed, helpless, open, unprotected, vulnerable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
defenseless

Best used to describe a person or thing that is completely unable to protect itself from harm or attack.

  • The kitten was defenseless against the aggressive dog
  • The village was left defenseless after the guards were attacked
vulnerable

Indicates a state of being open to physical or emotional harm, often used in a relatable and empathetic context.

  • Children are vulnerable to many illnesses
  • She felt vulnerable after sharing her deepest secrets
helpless

Appropriate for describing a person or creature that is unable to take care of itself or act independently, often invoking sympathy.

  • The baby bird was helpless without its mother
  • In the face of the natural disaster, they felt completely helpless
unprotected

Suggests a lack of protection or defense, making someone or something susceptible to harm.

  • The soldiers were unprotected in the open field
  • The documents were left unprotected on the desk
exposed

Used when something or someone is unprotected and visible, often to danger or risk.

  • The soldiers were exposed to enemy fire
  • Without his coat, he felt exposed to the cold
open

Used to describe something that is not closed or protected, but does not necessarily imply danger.

  • She left her diary open on the table
  • The store was open to anyone who wanted to enter

Examples of usage

  • She felt defenseless against the harsh criticism.
  • The defenseless child was left alone in the dangerous neighborhood.
  • Without any weapons, the soldiers were defenseless against the enemy.
  • The defenseless animal was unable to escape from the predator.
  • Feeling defenseless, she sought refuge in the safety of her home.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Feeling defenseless can lead to stress and anxiety, as individuals perceive themselves as vulnerable.
  • Psychological studies show that people tend to react more strongly to situations where they feel defenseless, sometimes leading to aggression or avoidance.

Pop Culture

  • In movies, defenseless characters often create suspense, such as innocent people in danger, heightening the emotional impact on the audience.
  • Songs about vulnerability frequently reference feelings of being defenseless, helping listeners connect to their own experiences.

Literature

  • Classic literature often features defenseless protagonists who must overcome great challenges, symbolizing resilience and strength.
  • In many fairy tales, the defenseless character represents innocence, allowing for themes of bravery and protection to flourish.

History

  • Throughout history, nations or individuals depicted as defenseless have often rallied support, leading to social movements or reforms.
  • During war times, defenseless groups, such as children and the elderly, have been focal points for humanitarian efforts worldwide.

Origin of 'defenseless'

Main points about word origin

  • The word combines 'defense', which comes from Latin โ€˜defensareโ€™, meaning to ward off or protect, and the suffix '-less', meaning without.
  • It has been used in English since the mid-14th century, originally referring to people without protection in battle.

The word 'defenseless' originated from the combination of 'defense' and the suffix '-less', which means 'without'. It first appeared in the English language in the mid-16th century. The term emphasizes the state of being without protection or the ability to defend oneself. Over time, 'defenseless' has been commonly used in various contexts to describe vulnerability and the lack of defense against harm or danger.

See also: defenselessly, defenses, defensibility, defensible, defensively, defensiveness, indefensible.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,961, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.