volitional

Rarely vo·li·tion·ar·y

[voh-lish-uh-nl, vuh-]

adjective

1. done of one’s own will or choosing; deliberately decided or chosen.

   Researchers must make a reasonable effort to obtain the express and volitional assent of their research subjects.

2. under conscious control.

   The most hopeful new development is that scientists have used artificial nerve connections to restore some volitional movement for a subject's paralyzed arm.

Other Word Forms

• volitionally adverb
• nonvolitional adjective
• prevolitional adjective
• unvolitional adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of volitional¹

volition ( def. ) + -al ¹ ( def. )

Example Sentences

“He either willfully chose to ignore them, or he lacked sufficient volitional control to calm himself enough to avoid acting out violently. Either way, his actions were cold, premeditated and lethally violent.”

Read more on Seattle Times

By around age 6 months, sucking has largely transitioned to a volitional action, as a result of greater involvement by the cerebral cortex.

Read more on Washington Post

The guide defined homicide as a death resulting “from a volitional act committed by another person,” emphasizing that it does not imply criminal intent.

Read more on Washington Post

A planned frolic that features joyful dancing to the compulsive rhythms of a string band forgets that the conditions behind this festivity aren’t volitional.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

In other chapters, though, race appears to have a more volitional hue, and people are “black by choice with a recognized right of resignation.”

Read more on Washington Post