How Do You Spell BE DEFENSELESS?

Pronunciation: [biː dɪfˈɛnsləs] (IPA)

The correct spelling for "be defenseless" is phonetically transcribed as /bi dɪˈfɛns.ləs/. There are two syllables in "defenseless" with the stress on the second syllable. The sound /d/ is used at the beginning, followed by the short vowel sound /ɪ/. Then, the consonant cluster /f s/ is used with the long vowel sound /ɛ/ and the sound /l/. Lastly, the suffix "-less" is added phonetically as /ləs/. So, when you want to express that someone or something has no protection, it should be spelled as "be defenseless".

BE DEFENSELESS Meaning and Definition

  1. To be defenseless refers to the state or condition of lacking protection, resistance, or means of defense against potential threats or attacks. When a person, group, or entity is defenseless, they are effectively vulnerable and exposed to harm, as they lack the ability to defend themselves adequately.

    Being defenseless implies a lack of the appropriate weaponry, resources, or strategies to counteract and repel aggressors or external dangers. It can manifest in different contexts, such as physical, emotional, or psychological defenselessness. In physical terms, it may refer to a person being physically weaker or unarmed, incapable of warding off physical harm or attacks.

    Alternatively, defenselessness can describe a state of emotional vulnerability, lacking the emotional resilience or coping mechanisms necessary to protect oneself from emotional harm or manipulation. This can leave an individual open to manipulation, exploitation, or abuse.

    Moreover, defenselessness can extend to psychological aspects, denoting an inability to shield one's thoughts, opinions, or beliefs from outside influences or coercions. In this sense, individuals who lack confidence or assertiveness may be viewed as defenseless, as they are less able to assert their own rights, preferences, or decisions.

    Overall, being defenseless denotes a state of fragility, susceptibility, and powerlessness in the face of potential threats, emphasizing the absence of effective means to protect oneself or one's interests.

Etymology of BE DEFENSELESS

The word "defenseless" is derived from the combination of the prefix "de-" meaning "without" or "not", and the word "defense". The word "defense" originated from the Old French word "defens" or "defense", which ultimately comes from the Latin word "defensio" meaning "a warding off, a defense, or protection". The Latin term is derived from the verb "defendere", where "de" signifies "from" or "away" and "fendere" means "to strike" or "to repel". Hence, "be defenseless" means to be without defense or protection.