hapless
UK: ˈhæpləs | US: ˈhæpləs
adj. unfortunate or unlucky
hapless = hap<luck, chance> + less<without>
- hap (from Old Norse happ, meaning "luck" or "chance")
- less (Old English suffix -lēas, meaning "without")
Etymology Origin:
The word "hapless" originated in the late 16th century, combining the Old Norse root hap (luck) with the Old English suffix -less (without). It literally means "without luck," reflecting a person or situation doomed by misfortune. The term evolved from neutral "chance" (as in "happen") to a purely negative connotation, emphasizing helplessness against fate.
The hapless traveler lost his luggage twice in one day.
Despite his efforts, the hapless team lost every match.
She felt hapless after missing her flight by just one minute.
The hapless kitten was stuck in the tree for hours.
His hapless attempts at cooking ended in a kitchen disaster.