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Definition of willful

willful

/ˈwɪl.fəl/
(UK: wilful)
will · ful
Adverb:willfully
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willful Lexical Profile

willful Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

American Done or committed intentionally and deliberately, often with full awareness of the negative or unlawful consequences.

Example

"The regulatory agency fined the corporation for its willful disregard of environmental safety standards."

2

American Having or showing a stubborn and determined intention to do as one wants, regardless of the advice, wishes, or authority of others.

Example

"Raising a willful toddler requires a great deal of patience and consistent boundaries."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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Word Nuance & Usage

"Willful" is the standard spelling in American English, whereas "wilful" is preferred in British and Commonwealth English.

• Rhymes for willful

• Nearby Words

willamette
willamette falls
willet
willful
willfully
willfulness
william

Word Origin & Etymology

From Middle English "wilful", formed from the noun "will" (from Old English "willa", meaning mind, determination, or purpose) combined with the suffix "-ful".

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Willful. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/willful
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