conation

co·na·tion

noun \kō-ˈnā-shən\

Definition of CONATION

: an inclination (as an instinct, a drive, a wish, or a craving) to act purposefully : impulse 3

— co·na·tive\ˈkō-nə-tiv, ˈkä-, ˈkō-ˌnā-\ adjective

Origin of CONATION

Latin conation-, conatio act of attempting, from conari to attempt — more at deacon

First Known Use: circa 1837