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

While some Granbury residents are fiercely protesting the mine, many others feel powerless to alter the will of a company with legal, political, and financial might. —By Andrew R Chow/granbury, Texas, TIME, 8 July 2024

Cherished songs or poems, a long day at the bar, listening to a dear friend tell a story—when these balms prove powerless, a different kind of terror takes hold. —Cory Leadbeater, The Atlantic, 1 July 2024

But contrary to Murphy’s take, recognizing that the ATF overstepped its authority does not mean Congress is powerless to act. —Jacob Sullum, Orange County Register, 20 June 2024

The whole jury duty routine is one in which you’re rendered kind of powerless. —Jess Bidgood, New York Times, 10 May 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