Synonyms of vulnerable

vulnerable

adjective

ˈvəl-n(ə-)rə-bəl 

1

as in susceptible

being in a situation where one is likely to meet with harm

I'm vulnerable to sunburn whenever I go out in the sun

Synonyms & Similar Words

• susceptible
• sensitive
• exposed
• prone
• endangered
• liable
• subject (to)
• in jeopardy
• open
• in deep water
• at risk
• unprotected
• likely
• unsecured
• unguarded
• undefended
• uncovered
• unscreened

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• invulnerable
• unexposed
• protected
• sheltered
• covered
• unsusceptible
• secured
• shielded
• guarded
• insusceptible
• screened
• safeguarded
• warded

2

as in helpless

lacking protection from danger or resistance against attack

vulnerable baby chicks

Synonyms & Similar Words

• susceptible
• helpless
• unprotected
• exposed
• defenseless
• undefended
• unguarded
• unsafe
• unarmed
• unresistant
• weak
• passive
• untenable
• in the lurch
• overcome
• indefensible
• feeble
• uncovered
• abandoned
• preyed (on or upon)
• disarmed
• high and dry
• frail
• resistless
• marooned

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• resistant
• protected
• safe
• secure
• sheltered
• invulnerable
• covered
• armed
• defensible
• fortified
• immune
• strong
• armored
• shielded
• guarded
• screened
• invincible
• impenetrable
• impregnable
• omnipotent
• unassailable
• unconquerable
• unbeatable
• almighty

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of vulnerable

And unless heat stroke is properly treated, organ damage can occur that would make someone vulnerable to future heat injuries. — Scott Neuman, NPR, 29 July 2026

Chelsea looked too vulnerable last season, too liable to panic and drop points from what should have been positions of strength, and were ill-disciplined. — Cerys Jones, New York Times, 28 July 2026

Her release offered relief during a widening conflict, but Tahbaz said dual nationals remain particularly vulnerable because Iran does not recognize their foreign citizenship. — Efrat Lachter, FOXNews.com, 28 July 2026

Heartbreak and rejection leave people emotionally vulnerable, and the manosphere pitch often comes paired with benign advice about standing up for yourself, being mentally tough, or becoming physically active. — Adam Serwer, The Atlantic, 28 July 2026

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