willpower

noun

will·​pow·​er ˈwil-ˌpau̇(-ə)r 

: the ability to control one's own actions, emotions, or urges

Alcoholics can't stop drinking through willpower alone: they need to alter behavior … that triggers the impulse to drink.

—James Atlas

I'm not talking about facing up to hard work or discipline, as if the problem were faulty willpower or a poor character.

—Patricia Hampl

also : strong determination that allows one to do something difficult

He [Nicolas Sarkozy] … brokered a huge trade deal with China and generally signaled that he could redefine his country through sheer willpower alone.

—Bruce Crumley

Synonyms

• continence
• restraint
• self-command
• self-containment
• self-control
• self-discipline
• self-government
• self-mastery
• self-possession
• self-restraint
• will

Examples of willpower in a Sentence

The dessert buffet tested my willpower.

He conquered his drinking problem through sheer willpower.

Recent Examples on the Web

Breaking bad habits is not merely a matter of willpower. —Mark Travers, Forbes, 3 Dec. 2024

Halloween leftovers are a challenge to anyone’s willpower. —Daniel Wine, CNN, 28 Oct. 2024

One is that the weight is a character flaw that can only be conquered by willpower, exercise and self-control. —Shelby Grad, Los Angeles Times, 13 Oct. 2024

This approach is exhausting and drains the limited willpower we are meant to conserve. —Shane Enete, Forbes, 20 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1850, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

willpower

noun

will·​pow·​er ˈwil-ˌpau̇(-ə)r 

: strong determination

the temptation tested her willpower