Dictionary
helpless
adjective help·less \ˈhel-pləs; Southern often ˈhep-ləs also ˈheəp-\
: not protected : not able to defend yourself
: unable to do something to make a situation, task, etc., better or easier
: not able to be controlled
Full Definition of HELPLESS
1
: lacking protection or support : defenseless
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>
— help·less·ly adverb
— help·less·ness noun
See helpless defined for English-language learners
See helpless defined for kids
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First Known Use of HELPLESS
before 12th century
Related to HELPLESS
- Synonyms
- defenseless, exposed, susceptible, undefended, unguarded, unprotected, unresistant, vulnerable, in the lurch
- Antonyms
- guarded, invulnerable, protected, resistant, shielded
HELPLESS Defined for Kids
helpless
adjective help·less \ˈhelp-ləs\
Definition of HELPLESS for Kids
: without help or defense <a helpless infant>
— help·less·ly adverb
— help·less·ness noun
Learn More About HELPLESS
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