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

Weak laws and weaker willpower A recent Gallup poll found the majority of Americans, 56% to 58%, want stricter gun laws, while measures like background checks has close to 90% support in both parties, per Pew. — Catherina Gioino, Fortune, 15 Sep. 2026

For one season, before recovery and routine returned, the players stripped away all pretense and showed their hearts and willpower. — Jerry Brewer, New York Times, 9 Sep. 2026

Research shows that willpower is a finite resource that becomes depleted throughout the day. — Dr. Erika Rasure, Forbes.com, 9 Sep. 2026

Despite months of negotiations, Tehran and Washington seem poised to keep fighting on and off in an effort to wear down the other’s materiel and willpower. — Dina Esfandiary, Foreign Affairs, 27 Aug. 2026

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