noun

helplessness

HEHLP-lihs-nihs

Helplessness (noun) means the state or feeling of being unable to help oneself or affect a situation. Example: “A wave of helplessness washed over her as the plane began to shake.”

noun

The state or feeling of being unable to help oneself or affect a situation.

"A wave of helplessness washed over her as the plane began to shake."

How to use helplessness

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe feeling of being powerless to change or improve a situation.

Common pairings

a sense of helplessness feelings of helplessness

Word forms

helplessnesses plural

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A wave of _____ washed over her as the plane began to shake.

Etymology

From "helpless" plus the noun suffix "-ness."

Synonyms

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weakness impuissance

Related words

power vice failing weakness limitation flaw guilty pleasure vigor

Rhymes for helplessness

lawlessness selflessness carelessness homelessness restlessness recklessness hopelessness ruthlessness weightlessness

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Frequently asked questions

What does “helplessness” mean?

The word “helplessness” means the state or feeling of being unable to help oneself or affect a situation. In plain terms, the feeling of being powerless to change or improve a situation.

How do you pronounce “helplessness”?

“Helplessness” is pronounced HEHLP-lihs-nihs (/ˈhɛlplɪsnɪs/ in IPA).

How do you use “helplessness” in a sentence?

Here is “helplessness” used in a sentence: “A wave of helplessness washed over her as the plane began to shake.”

What part of speech is “helplessness”?

“Helplessness” is a noun.

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