free will

noun

1

: voluntary choice or decision

I do this of my own free will.

2

: freedom of humans to make choices that are not determined by prior causes or by divine intervention

Synonyms of free will

• choice
• will

Examples of free will in a Sentence

He argues that all humans have free will.

all of the workers at the homeless shelter are unpaid and are there of their own free will

Recent Examples on the Web

Even after his death, Dennett remains one of the major voices in the conversation of consciousness, religion, free will, and artificial intelligence. —Theodore McDarrah, Forbes.com, 28 May 2026

One giant leap for actor/director Andy Serkis’ baffling use of free will. —Alison Foreman, IndieWire, 30 Apr. 2026

Through the character of Carol, the show explores complex themes of agency, free will, and individualism in a nuanced take on a dystopian invasion narrative that resists easy answers. —Patrick Hipes, Deadline, 23 Apr. 2026

There’s never been a better time to exercise your free will (and just plain exercise) by scooping up a new bike or tent to start your next outdoor adventure. —Jamie Spain, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for free will

• anthill
• backfill
• bluegill
• crossbill
• distil
• distill
• downhill
• dunghill
• foothill
• fulfil
• fulfill
• goodwill

Kids Definition

freewill

1 of 2 adjective

free·​will ˌfrē-ˌwil 

: of or done by one's own free will : voluntary

a freewill offering

free will

2 of 2 noun

ˈfrē-ˈwil

: one's own choice or decision