willingness

[ wil-ing-nis ]

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 Words From

• o·ver·will·ing·ness noun
• pre·will·ing·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of willingness¹

willing ( def ) + -ness ( def )

Example Sentences

Patel's loyalty — a willingness to embrace Trump's most extreme instincts — is why the president-elect has named him to lead the FBI.

From Salon

The study is limited in that it looked at people’s self-reported willingness to engage in climate action rather than their actual behavior, noted co-author Brittany Bloodhart, a social psychologist at California State University, San Bernardino.

From Salon

Secondly, my hope is that by my willingness to speak out, others will come and speak out themselves.”

From BBC

Last week, the Times reported that he pleaded guilty late in the legal process and indicated a "lack of willingness to comply".

From BBC

And Hamas has reportedly signalled its willingness to talk about a deal along similar lines.

From BBC

Related Words

• eagerness
• enthusiasm