strong-willed

American  

[strawng-wild, strong-] / ˈstrɔŋˈwɪld, ˈstrɒŋ- /

adjective

1. having a powerful will; resolute.

2. stubborn; obstinate.

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strong-willed British  

adjective

1. having strength of will

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Etymology

Origin of strong-willed

First recorded in 1895–1900

Explanation

Someone strong-willed doesn’t give up easily. A strong-willed person is determined. Your will is your desire or drive to do something, so a strong-willed person is someone with a powerful will. This can be positive or negative. A child who insists on going to the zoo in the rain is strong-willed in a stubborn way. Someone with deep beliefs is strong-willed in a better way. A hero — or anyone who shows courage — is strong-willed. You have to be strong-willed to stand up for what you believe in during difficult situations.

Example Sentences

Some companies have had such strong-willed and influential founders that they could make bold bets without giving themselves extra votes.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 6, 2026

Born in London in 1932, Taylor was one of the 20th Century's biggest movie stars, noted for her unique beauty and her portrayals of volatile and strong-willed characters.

From BBC • Mar. 31, 2026

It didn’t take long to recognize that the core of the hearing would be an honor dispute between two strong-willed men.

From Slate • Mar. 18, 2026

In the film, Winslet plays Julia, the strong-willed eldest sibling of the Cheshire clan, too often charged with being the glue holding her family together.

From Salon • Jan. 1, 2026

In his devotion to his strong-willed mother, I saw a deep respect for women and their independence.

From "Becoming" by Michelle Obama

Related Words

• headstrong