as in stubborn
sticking to an opinion, purpose, or course of action in spite of reason, arguments, or persuasion
a self-willed toddler who refused to take her shoes off in the examining room
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for self-willed
Adjective
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Experts warn that the stubborn metric has long-term implications for learning.—
Kate Armanini,
Chicago Tribune,
26 Jan. 2026 -
Wait 10 minutes before washing for milder stains or up to a week for more severe or stubborn stains.—
Brandee Gruener,
Southern Living,
26 Jan. 2026
Adjective
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However, Skipper was adamant that the referee mistakenly listed him as eligible, not Decker, resulting in the Lions losing 20-19 to the Cowboys.—
DeJanay Booth-Singleton,
CBS News,
22 Jan. 2026
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Some of the bill’s legislative advocates last year were adamant its motivation was concern over safety and that the public doesn't know enough about the science.—
Paul Flahive,
Austin American Statesman,
21 Jan. 2026
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Cite this Entry
“Self-willed.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/self-willed. Accessed 31 Jan. 2026.
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