powerless

adjective

pow·​er·​less ˈpau̇(-ə)r-ləs How to pronounce powerless (audio)
Synonyms of powerlessnext
1
: devoid of strength or resources
powerless victims
2
: lacking the authority or capacity to act
was powerless to help
powerlessly adverb
powerlessness noun

Synonyms of powerless

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Examples of powerless in a Sentence

I wish I could help you, but I am powerless in this situation.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Fed Chairman Kevin Warsh should highlight that market prices are a global endeavor, rendering the Fed largely powerless against what economists mistakenly call inflation. — John Tamny, Forbes.com, 5 July 2026 By noon Saturday, about 750,000 utility customers were powerless in Wisconsin, Michigan, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Ohio, New York and New Jersey. — Los Angeles Times, 4 July 2026 Some oppose them but feel hamstrung or powerless to stop or slow their progress, as occurred in Ypsilanti Township and in nearby Saline Township as well. — Lauren Mullenbach, The Conversation, 1 July 2026 There is no coach more powerless than the college basketball coach. — Mac Engel june 29, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 30 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for powerless

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of powerless was in the 15th century

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power landing
powerless
powerlessness
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Cite this Entry

“Powerless.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/powerless. Accessed 15 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

powerless

adjective
pow·​er·​less ˈpau̇(-ə)r-ləs How to pronounce powerless (audio)
1
: lacking power, force, or energy
2
: lacking authority to act
powerlessly adverb
powerlessness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on powerless

Nglish: Translation of powerless for Spanish Speakers

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