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.

---

Other Word Forms

• overwillingness
  noun
• prewillingness
  noun

Etymology

Origin of willingness

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

Explanation

If someone's willing, he has the quality of willingness, which can vary from meaning "prepared," to "enthusiastic," like your little brother's eager willingness to help walk the dog. If your troop of Girl Scouts has a willingness to try anything, it means they stay cheerful and ready, even if they're hiking through a prickly field of thistles. When something is done with willingness, there is no sense of resentment or hesitation. The word's origin lies in the Old English wyllan, "to wish, desire, or want."

Example Sentences

“Brian Roberts has already proven his willingness to play the long game and with continued control should be the end decision maker,” Fishman said.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 2, 2026

He also praised Minogue's longevity and willingness to evolve musically throughout her career.

From BBC • Jul. 2, 2026

“Consumers are showing more willingness to trade across proteins,” he said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 30, 2026

Before he took over the Fed in May, Warsh’s willingness to combat inflation had been somewhat in doubt.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 30, 2026

She had proven her willingness to bear children.

From "A Girl Named Disaster" by Nancy Farmer

Related Words

• eagerness
• enthusiasm