How Do You Spell DEFENSELESS?

Pronunciation: [dɪfˈɛnsləs] (IPA)

The word "defenseless" is spelled with a "c" instead of an "s" because it follows the British spelling convention. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word would be represented as /dɪˈfɛns.ləs/. The stress is on the second syllable, as indicated by the apostrophe. The "c" is pronounced like an "s" in this word, which can cause confusion for those unfamiliar with British spelling conventions. Overall, it is important to be aware of spelling differences between British and American English in order to communicate effectively.

DEFENSELESS Meaning and Definition

1. Defenseless is an adjective that describes the state or condition of being vulnerable, unable to resist an attack or protect oneself against harm. It refers to lacking the means or resources to defend oneself physically, mentally, or emotionally, leaving a person or thing open and susceptible to harm, danger, or exploitation.

   When used in the context of humans, defenselessness can manifest as a lack of physical strength, weaponry, or protection, rendering them unable to fend off an attacker or safeguard their well-being. This term can also extend to a person's mental or emotional state, highlighting their susceptibility to manipulation, deceit, or coercion due to their lack of discernment or assertiveness.

   Similarly, defenselessness can apply to animals, suggesting their incapacity to shield themselves from predators or safeguard their territories. It can also encompass inanimate objects, such as a defenseless house left unguarded or lacking security measures that make it an easy target for thieves or vandals.

   The term defenseless implies a certain level of vulnerability and helplessness, suggesting an absence of safeguards, protections, or the ability to mount a defense. It often conveys a sense of sympathy or concern for those in such a condition, highlighting the importance of empathy, support, and advocacy for those who are lacking the means to protect themselves.

Top Common Misspellings for DEFENSELESS *

• defensless 45.1388888%
• defencless 4.8611111%
• defenselesss 2.0833333%
• defesnsless 2.0833333%
• deffenceless 2.0833333%
• deffenseless 1.3888888%

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for DEFENSELESS

• defenssless
• defendless
• defenselss
• defenless
• sefenseless
• xefenseless
• cefenseless
• defenselessy
• defeeless
• desenseness
• defenselesnes
• meenseless

Etymology of DEFENSELESS

The word "defenseless" originated from the combination of two Middle English terms: "defence", derived from the Old French word "defendre", meaning "to defend", and the suffix "-less", originating from the Old English "-leas", meaning "without" or "lacking". Over time, the word "defenseless" emerged, indicating someone or something lacking protection or unable to fend off attacks or threats.

Similar spelling words for DEFENSELESS

• defenceless,
• defense force,
• defensible,
• defensiveness,
• deafness,
• defenestrate,
• defense system,
• defencelessly,
• defensively,
• defensive,
• defense team,
• deepness.