impotent
adjective
not potent; lacking power or ability.
impotently
-
a word derived from
impotent.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
People arriving at the airport now can watch as the empty trains shuttle impotently back and forth.
From Barron's ● May 27, 2026
But if coronavirus vaccines for my children mean the difference between nursing them through mild cold symptoms and impotently rocking a sobbing baby at midnight, I’ll take the shot every time.
From Washington Post ● Jul. 26, 2022
And it is heartbreaking and frustrating to see city leaders just standing by helplessly and impotently while their constituents are plagued by endless challenges.
From Seattle Times ● Dec. 30, 2021
Moving through the surreal landscape of upside-down chairs and luggage racks, tattered upholstery, grit, loose strands of emergency lights shining impotently in the darkness.
From Salon ● Feb. 16, 2019
I had tossed off my covers while I was asleep, and the Dancing Fan lay facedown, its blades pushing air impotently at the floor.
From "Darius the Great Is Not Okay" by Adib Khorram
