powerless

adjective

pow·​er·​less ˈpau̇(-ə)r-ləs How to pronounce powerless (audio)
1
: devoid of strength or resources
powerless victims
2
: lacking the authority or capacity to act
was powerless to help
powerlessly adverb
powerlessness noun

Examples of powerless in a Sentence

I wish I could help you, but I am powerless in this situation.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
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 See all Example Sentences for powerless 

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of powerless was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near powerless

Cite this Entry

“Powerless.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/powerless. Accessed 18 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

powerless

adjective
pow·​er·​less ˈpau̇(-ə)r-ləs How to pronounce powerless (audio)
1
: lacking power, force, or energy
2
: lacking authority to act
powerlessly adverb
powerlessness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on powerless

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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