willingness

American  

[wil-ing-nis] / ˈwɪl ɪŋ nɪs /

noun

1. consent or readiness to do something.

   The majority of the neighborhood’s older residents were employed, and younger people showed a willingness to work but often could not find jobs.

2. an inclination or preference: The country has shown no sign of willingness to make concessions.

   We admire her willingness to stand up for what she believes.

   The country has shown no sign of willingness to make concessions.

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Other Word Forms

• overwillingness noun
• prewillingness noun

Etymology

Origin of willingness

willing ( def. ) + -ness ( def. )

Example Sentences

Jeneroux added his decision was fueled by “a willingness to stand up and serve even when the path is not easy.”

From The Wall Street Journal

“It just takes a steady hand and the willingness to drill a million little holes,” he says.

From Los Angeles Times

Policymakers have repeatedly demonstrated a willingness to protect creditors well beyond traditional deposit insurance over the past 15 years.

From Barron's

Paramount’s willingness to increase its offer late in the auction attracted the attention of some Warner investors.

From Los Angeles Times

And they marvel at his willingness to embrace all the boring stuff that greatness requires.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• eagerness
• enthusiasm