n.
Pronunciation: ' wil
Function: noun
Etymology: Middle English, from Old English willa will, desire; akin to Old English wille
Date: before 12th century
1 : DESIRE , WISH : as a : DISPOSITION , INCLINATION <where there's a will there's a way> b : APPETITE , PASSION c : CHOICE , DETERMINATION
2 a : something desired especially : a choice or determination of one having authority or power b (1) archaic : REQUEST , COMMAND (2) [from the phrase our will is which introduces it] : the part of a summons expressing a royal command
3 : the act, process, or experience of willing : VOLITION
4 a : mental powers manifested as wishing, choosing, desiring, or intending b : a disposition to act according to principles or ends c : the collective desire of a group <the will of the people>
5 : the power of control over one's own actions or emotions <a man of iron will >
6 : a legal declaration of a person's wishes regarding the disposal of his or her property or estate after death especially : a written instrument legally executed by which a person makes disposition of his or her estate to take effect after death
– at will : as one wishes : as or when it pleases or suits oneself