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

But even as consumers demonstrate their willingness to pay less and watch ads, streaming platforms still benefit, making money from both subscription fees and advertising.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 30, 2026

Harry Redknapp, now 79 and sacked by Spurs in 2012, has made his willingness to step in clear, as has another former manager Glenn Hoddle.

From BBC • Mar. 29, 2026

Their ability to enact change depended on their willingness to defy current custom and mores.

From Salon • Mar. 28, 2026

The survey’s gauge of consumers’ willingness to save—which rises at times of greater economic uncertainty—stabilized, albeit close to its highest point since 2008.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 26, 2026

The League’s success depended on the willingness of governments to cooperate.

From "The War to End All Wars: World War I" by Russell Freedman

Related Words

• eagerness
• enthusiasm