The term 'struggle helplessly' can be described by two crossword solutions: 'FLAIL' (5 letters) and 'FLOUNDER' (8 letters). FLAIL is an archaic verb meaning to move or swing wildly, while FLOUNDER is a verb meaning to struggle clumsily or helplessly. Both words are used to describe a person who is struggling with something, but in different ways. FLAIL implies a more frantic, uncontrolled movement, while FLOUNDER implies a more clumsy, disoriented movement.