helplessness

UK: /ˈhɛlpləsnɪs/

WordReference Random House Learner's Dictionary of American English © 2025

help•less /ˈhɛlplɪs/   adj. 

1. unable to help oneself;
   weak:
   a helpless newborn baby.
2. without aid or protection:
   The army was left helpless before the enemy bombardment.
3. weakened;
   powerless:
   helpless with laughter.

help•less•ly, adv. 
help•less•ness, n. [uncountable]

WordReference Random House Unabridged Dictionary of American English © 2025

help•less  (help′lis), adj. 

1. unable to help oneself;
   weak or dependent:
   a helpless invalid.
2. deprived of strength or power;
   powerless;
   incapacitated:
   They were helpless with laughter.
3. affording no help.

• 1125–75; Middle English; see help, -less

help′less•ly, adv. 
help′less•ness, n.