How to Pronounce Helpless

To pronounce "helpless", say HELPL-ess — 2 syllables, IPA /ˈhɛlplɪs/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

helpless

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Accent

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2

Syllables

8

Letters

/ˈhɛlplɪs/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “helpless”

"helpless" has 2 syllables: helpl-ess.

What does helpless mean?

adjective

  1. Unable to defend oneself.
  2. Lacking help; powerless.

Hear “helpless” in real sentences

Real example sentences from Tatoeba (CC-BY) — tap to hear each one, or see it used on YouGlish.

Related words

powerlessweakhopelessincapacitatedlostdependentunarmedpowerlessness

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "helpless"?▾

"Helpless" has 2 syllables: helpl · ess.

What is the IPA transcription of "helpless"?▾

The IPA transcription of "helpless" is /ˈhɛlplɪs/.

What does "helpless" mean?▾

Helpless: Unable to defend oneself.

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