Need another word for Helplessness? Use these synonyms of Helplessness from our thesaurus to say it differently.
Synonyms & Similar Words
powerlessness
weakness
inability
incapacity
ineffectiveness
impotence
feebleness
frailty
vulnerability
defenselessness
hopelessness
despair
despondency
resignation
submissiveness
subjugation
oppression
enslavement
disability
handicap
limitation
constraint
restriction
immobilization
paralysis
inaction
inactivity
inertness
passivity
indecision
indecisiveness
irresolution
irresoluteness
feebleness
fragility
infirmity
debility
frailness
impuissance
pusillanimity
Meaning of Helplessness
The primary meaning of the word "Helplessness" is the state of being unable to help oneself or others.
Definitions
- The state of being unable to help oneself or others
- A feeling of being unable to control events or influence their outcome
- A condition of being weak or powerless, physically or mentally
Etymology of Helplessness
The word "Helplessness" originates from the Old English words "help" (meaning "help" or "assistance") and the suffix "-less" (meaning "without" or "lacking")
The term has been in use since the 15th century to describe a state of being unable to help oneself or others, and has evolved to encompass a range of meanings related to powerlessness and vulnerability
Example Uses
- The natural disaster left many people with a feeling of helplessness as they watched their homes being destroyed
- The patient felt a sense of helplessness as she lay in the hospital bed, unable to move or communicate
- The community came together to support the family in need, alleviating their feelings of helplessness and despair
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
capability
ability
strength
power
potency
effectiveness
efficiency
competence
skill
proficiency
adeptness
mastery
control
dominance
supremacy
authority
influence
sway
agency
autonomy
self-sufficiency
independence
freedom
empowerment
enablement
facilitation