Definition of willy–nilly
1 : by compulsion : without choice
2 : in a haphazard or spontaneous manner
Read the Latest from M-W
Origin and Etymology of willy–nilly
alteration of will I nill I or will ye nill ye or will he nill he
WILLY–NILLY Defined for English Language Learners
willy-nilly
play
adverb
Definition of willy–nilly for English Language Learners
-
: in a careless and unplanned way
-
: in a way that does not allow any choices or planning
Learn More about willy–nilly
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up willy–nilly? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Writing? Check your grammar now!