living will

American  

noun

1. a document instructing physicians, relatives, or others to refrain from the use of extraordinary measures, as life-support equipment, to prolong one's life in the event of a terminal illness.

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living will British  

noun

1. a document stating that if its author becomes terminally ill, his or her life should not be prolonged by artificial means, such as a life-support machine

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Etymology

Origin of living will

First recorded in 1970–75

Example Sentences

A living will and/or living trust can also provide additional instructions.

From MarketWatch

Economists polled by The Wall Street Journal predict the cost of living will show an increase of 0.4% in September.

From MarketWatch

I’m curious about your $5,000-plus monthly expenses: This is also a good time to look at your lifestyle, power of attorney, living will, prioritize your needs and see what expenses you can cut.

From MarketWatch

In the future, people who are now living will tell their children and grandchildren how they watched American democracy being surrendered to plutocratic authoritarianism and fascism in real time.

From Salon

Residents struggling with the cost of living will be able to access free gifts and affordable produce at a community event in Withernsea.

From BBC