powerless
UK: ˈpaʊəlɪs | US: ˈpaʊərlɪs
adj. lacking strength, ability, or authority; unable to act or influence
adj. (of a machine or system) without power or energy
The word "powerless" combines "power," derived from Old French poeir (to be able) and Latin potere (to be powerful), with the suffix "-less," from Old English -lēas (without). The fusion reflects a straightforward negation: "power" (capacity or control) + "-less" (absence), creating a term that vividly conveys a state of helplessness or lack of agency. This construction follows a common English pattern for forming negative adjectives (e.g., "hopeless," "fearless").
The villagers felt powerless against the natural disaster.
Without a battery, the device is completely powerless.
She described the frustration of being powerless to change the policy.
The hero was rendered powerless by the villain's magic.
Protesters argued they were not powerless but united in their cause.