1
: not protected : not able to defend yourself
a helpless little baby
The civilians were helpless against their attackers.
2
: unable to do something to make a situation, task, etc., better or easier
Firefighters were helpless against the blaze.
I feel helpless. Isn't there anything I can do?
3
a
: not able to be controlled
helpless laughter/rage
b
: not able to control something (such as laughter or anger)
The crowd was helpless with laughter.
He was helpless with rage.
Cite this Entry
“Helpless.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/helpless. Accessed 21 Jun. 2026.
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