willpower

noun

will·​pow·​er ˈwil-ˌpau̇(-ə)r 

: the ability to control one's own actions, emotions, or urges

Approximately 42% of U.S. adults are affected by obesity, and many believe that willpower alone is insufficient for weight loss, highlighting the need for pharmacological interventions

—Richard Howells

I'm not talking about facing up to hard work or discipline, as if the problem were faulty willpower or a poor character.

—Patricia Hampl

also : strong determination that allows one to do something difficult

<… maintaining their seats at the corporate table through a wily deployment of guts, guile and willpower.

—Hugh Hart

Synonyms of willpower

• restraint
• self-control

Examples of willpower in a Sentence

The dessert buffet tested my willpower.

He conquered his drinking problem through sheer willpower.

Recent Examples on the Web

Public-facing materials and media narratives frequently frame weight as evidence of a lack of willpower to resist fatty and sugary foods — despite evidence to the contrary. —Time, 19 Dec. 2025

Staying alert on the road Keeping alert requires more than willpower. —Iona Brannon, Travel + Leisure, 19 Dec. 2025

Instead of willpower and drive, feelings of restlessness and nervousness might dominate. —Hannah Madlener, Glamour, 12 Dec. 2025

Around this time, Mars enters Capricorn, activating your identity and willpower. —Dossé-Via Trenou, Refinery29, 28 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1850, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for willpower

• airpower
• brainpower
• devour
• empower
• firepower
• horsepower
• manpower
• mayflower
• safflower
• sunflower
• wallflower
• watchtower

Kids Definition

willpower

noun

will·​pow·​er ˈwil-ˌpau̇(-ə)r 

: strong determination

the temptation tested her willpower