adjective
- unable to protect oneself or resist attack; lacking the means or ability to defend
Usage: British spelling; American spelling is 'defenseless'; often used to describe vulnerable people or animals
Examples
- The defenceless child needed an adult to keep her safe.
- The village was left defenceless after the soldiers withdrew.
- He felt defenceless against the harsh criticism from his peers.
- The defenceless animals were at the mercy of predators.
- Without legal representation, she was defenceless in court.
- The team was defenceless against their opponents' aggressive strategy.