# willed

/ˈwɪɫd/ (US) · /wˈɪld/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/willed
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

having a strong desire to do something or a specific type of personality. It is usually used with another word to describe how someone uses their mind or energy.

For teachers: having a specified level or type of willpower or determination. Typically appears as the second element in a hyphenated compound (e.g., 'strong-willed', 'self-willed').

## Examples

- She is a very strong-willed person who never gives up.
- The manager is known for being iron-willed when it comes to meeting deadlines and staying under budget.
- The protagonist is portrayed as a weak-willed individual who is easily manipulated by those around him, leading to his eventual downfall in the final act.

## Usage notes

- Usually functions as a participial adjective in compound forms; rarely used alone in modern English.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.