helplessness

Definitions

The state of being unable to defend oneself or to act without help.

A feeling of despair or lack of power to change a situation.

Examples

She felt a deep sense of helplessness as she watched the storm destroy her garden.

The character's overwhelming helplessness in the face of the tragedy moved the audience to tears.

He struggled to overcome his feelings of helplessness after losing his job.

Synonyms

powerlessness impotence vulnerability incapacity weakness despair dependency

Antonyms

empowerment strength capability potency independence control competence