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

But seemingly by sheer willpower, Meredith holds out her hand, which sends the liquid back in the opposite direction toward Britani. —Tom Smyth, Vulture, 29 Oct. 2025

But willpower will never take you all the way in making a film. —Susan Sontag, Vogue, 26 Oct. 2025

More than willpower, success requires thorough planning, deep expertise and flawless execution, which Artemis II’s scientists, engineers, project managers and crew have spent years cultivating. —Matt Alderton, USA Today, 24 Oct. 2025

Her vitality leaves quite the impression on saxophonist Ronnie Scott (Daniel Betts), who fends off the girl’s advances even as he’s dazzled by her willpower. —David Ehrlich, IndieWire, 17 Oct. 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