adj C2 Proficient

hapless

HAP-lihs

Hapless (adj) means Unlucky, especially in a way that invites pity or mild amusement. Example: “The hapless intern spilled coffee on the CEO's desk during his first week.”

adj

Unlucky, especially in a way that invites pity or mild amusement.

"The hapless intern spilled coffee on the CEO's desk during his first week."

"A hapless tourist wandered into the middle of the parade."

How to use hapless

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishUnlucky or accident-prone, usually in a way that's a bit sad or comic rather than tragic.

Common pairings

a hapless victim the hapless hero hapless attempt

Word forms

more hapless comparative, most hapless superlative

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The _____ intern spilled coffee on the CEO's desk during his first week.

Etymology

From hap ("luck") plus the suffix -less ("without"), so literally "without luck."

Rhymes for hapless

strapless

See all rhymes for hapless →

Frequently asked questions

What does “hapless” mean?

The word “hapless” means unlucky, especially in a way that invites pity or mild amusement. In plain terms, unlucky or accident-prone, usually in a way that's a bit sad or comic rather than tragic.

How do you pronounce “hapless”?

“Hapless” is pronounced HAP-lihs (/ˈhæpləs/ in IPA).

How do you use “hapless” in a sentence?

Here is “hapless” used in a sentence: “The hapless intern spilled coffee on the CEO's desk during his first week.”

What part of speech is “hapless”?

“Hapless” is an adjective.

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C2 vocabulary words