Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Helpless Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ˜ž
Add to dictionary

helpless

[หˆhelplษ™s ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

feeling or showing inability to manage or cope

Unable to help oneself; powerless or incompetent. Synonyms include vulnerable, defenseless, and impotent.

Examples of usage

  • She felt helpless in the face of such overwhelming odds.
  • The child looked up at her with a helpless expression.
Context #2 | Adjective

lacking protection or support

Without the means to help oneself; needing assistance. Synonyms include unprotected, exposed, and defenseless.

Examples of usage

  • The stranded hiker was left feeling completely helpless.
  • She found herself in a helpless situation with no one to turn to.

Translations

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

Origin of 'helpless'

The word 'helpless' originated in the 16th century from the combination of 'help' and the suffix '-less'. It has since been used to describe the state of being without the ability to help oneself or lacking protection. Over time, the word has evolved to encompass a range of contexts where one feels powerless or incapable.

See also: helper, helpers, helpful, helpfully, helpfulness, helping, helplessly, helplessness, unhelpful.

Word Frequency Rank

At #7,128 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.