ku-adjective (archaic)
having no choice; at a loss for what to do; at one's wits' end
Archaic 'ku' adjective meaning to be without means or options. Modern Japanese uses phrases like なすすべもない or どうしようもない.
See also: なすすべもない
古典では「術なし」と詠んで、どうにもならない心境を表すことがある。
In classical literature, 術なし is sometimes used to express a feeling of helplessness.
Modern equivalent meaning 'having no way to act' or 'helpless'. 術なし is its archaic predecessor.
From 術 (すべ, 'means, way') + なし (archaic adjective ending meaning 'without'). The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but it follows a common pattern of forming negative adjectives in classical Japanese.