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

Like focusing on a powerless pawn in chess, businesses can discover openings in competitors’ vulnerabilities or inefficiencies. 5. —Boris Kreiman, Forbes, 18 Dec. 2024

California Attorney General Rob Bonta told CalMatters that the state may be powerless to stop the possibility of a new facility. —Calmatters, The Mercury News, 6 Dec. 2024

Everyone should recognize that if the people cannot hold its government in check, then we as people are powerless. —Letters To The Editor, Orlando Sentinel, 14 Nov. 2024

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

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