powerless

adjective

pow·​er·​less ˈpau̇(-ə)r-ləs 

1

: devoid of strength or resources

powerless victims

2

: lacking the authority or capacity to act

was powerless to help

powerlessly adverb

powerlessness noun

Synonyms

• hamstrung
• handcuffed
• helpless
• high and dry
• hog-tied
• impotent
• impuissant
• paralyzed
• weak

Examples of powerless in a Sentence

I wish I could help you, but I am powerless in this situation.

Recent Examples on the Web

The people recounting their months of powerless standing were the very top aides to the current President, and his predecessor, who is soon to also be his successor. —Philip Elliott, TIME, 11 Dec. 2024

The defense was powerless to stop a 49ers team struggling with injuries. —Colleen Kane, Chicago Tribune, 11 Dec. 2024

As a result, your reports may feel powerless and stressed, shut down and keep their ideas to themselves. —Kathleen Shanley, Forbes, 3 Dec. 2024

In William Friedkin’s 1972 original, science and modern medicine are completely powerless to dent the demon who has possessed the innocent victim, leaving it up to the patriarchal Catholic Church to take on Pazuzu (and forge its own Reaganomics). —David Colman, The Hollywood Reporter, 31 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

powerless

adjective

pow·​er·​less ˈpau̇(-ə)r-ləs 

1

: lacking power, force, or energy

2

: lacking authority to act

powerlessly adverb

powerlessness noun