Crossword Genius

Having no answer, somehow shell peas unaided (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

helpless

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'unaided' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

I don't understand the rest of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for helpless that I've seen before include "Powerless, defenceless" , "Unable to manage independently" , "Unaided" , "Uncontrollable (with laughter)" , "has no defence" .)

I've seen this clue in The Daily Express and The Times.
Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.