as in vulnerable
lacking protection from danger or resistance against attack
the lack of warm clothing left the hikers defenseless against the unexpected cold snap
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for defenseless
Adjective
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However, those with pre-existing heart or lung conditions, children, older adults, and people who are pregnant are particularly vulnerable.—
Thomas G. Moukawsher,
MSNBC Newsweek,
24 Apr. 2025 -
However, despite these framework implementations, many businesses are still vulnerable to cyber threats.—
Vytautas Kaziukonis,
Forbes.com,
24 Apr. 2025
Adjective
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In his only opportunity as the starter, Davis smashed a helpless Jets team for 152 total yards on 23 touches.—
Joe Buscaglia,
New York Times,
28 Apr. 2025
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Because without them, we are often left with a patient who is terrified, paranoid, screaming, or striking out — and a family that is exhausted, helpless, and scared.—
Dr. Sabooh Mubbashar,
Hartford Courant,
27 Apr. 2025
Adjective
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But the ride for Palantir has been far from smooth, and shares have been susceptible to volatile swings.—
Samantha Subin,
CNBC,
28 Apr. 2025
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Tovar, for example, researches specific genes that make people more susceptible to diabetes, which affects about 38 million Americans, including some who don't respond well to existing treatments.—
Brett Kelman,
NPR,
28 Apr. 2025
Adjective
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Without state laws, prosecuting FGM/C cases becomes significantly more difficult, leaving thousands of girls unprotected.—
Sydney Iannantuono,
Hartford Courant,
21 Apr. 2025
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Had the Heat not made the playoffs, their 2026 unprotected first-round pick instead would have gone to the Thunder.—
Ira Winderman,
Sun Sentinel,
21 Apr. 2025
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Cite this Entry
“Defenseless.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/defenseless. Accessed 4 May. 2025.
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