will

²will

noun \ˈwil\

Definition of WILL

1

: desire, wish: as a : disposition, inclination <where there's a will there's a way> b : appetite, passion c : choice, determination

2

a : something desired; especially : a choice or determination of one having authority or power b (1) archaic : request, command (2) [from the phrase our will is which introduces it] : the part of a summons expressing a royal command

3

: the act, process, or experience of willing : volition

4

a : mental powers manifested as wishing, choosing, desiring, or intending b : a disposition to act according to principles or ends c : the collective desire of a group <the will of the people>

5

: the power of control over one's own actions or emotions <a man of iron will>

6

: a legal declaration of a person's wishes regarding the disposal of his or her property or estate after death; especially : a written instrument legally executed by which a person makes disposition of his or her estate to take effect after death

— at will

: as one wishes : as or when it pleases or suits oneself

Examples of WILL

1. In her will, she asked that her money be donated to the church.
2. He made a will only days before his death.
3. He has no will of his own.
4. a government that reflects the will of the people

Origin of WILL

Middle English, from Old English willa will, desire; akin to Old English wille

First Known Use: before 12th century

Related to WILL

Synonyms: continence, restraint, self-command, self-containment, self-control, self-discipline, self-government, self-mastery, self-possession, self-restraint, willpower

Related Words: self-abnegation, self-denial, self-deprivation; moderateness, moderation, temperance, temperateness; determination, nerve; command, control, discipline, mastery; abnegation, abstention, avoidance, eschewal, forbearance; abstinence, soberness, sobriety; aplomb, assurance, composure, confidence, coolness, equanimity, poise, self-confidence; discretion

Near Antonyms: gratification, indulgence, self-indulgence; excessiveness, immoderacy, intemperance, intemperateness, overindulgence; demerit, failing, fault, feebleness, foible, frailty, shortcoming, vice, weakness; indiscipline, unconstraint, unreserve, unreservedness, unrestraint

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