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

"Don't let AI technology undermine your willingness to trust anything you see and hear," said Hannah Covington, senior director of education content at the nonprofit News Literacy Project.

From Barron's • Apr. 2, 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

Former manager Harry Redknapp has indicated his willingness to return, but is now 79 and has not worked in management since being sacked by Birmingham City in May 2017.

From BBC • Mar. 24, 2026

Traynor believed that Dasch was being sincere in his willingness to help.

From Nazi Saboteurs by Samantha Seiple

Related Words

• eagerness
• enthusiasm