unwilling

adjective

un·​will·​ing ˌən-ˈwi-liŋ 

: not willing:

a

: loath, reluctant

was unwilling to learn

b

: done or given reluctantly

unwilling approval

c

: offering opposition : obstinate

an unwilling student

unwillingly

ˌən-ˈwi-liŋ-lē 

adverb

unwillingness noun

Synonyms

• coerced
• forced
• involuntary
• unintended
• unintentional
• will-less

Examples of unwilling in a Sentence

He was an unwilling participant in the demonstration.

unwilling contributions from city employees who felt pressured to do so

Recent Examples on the Web

If your new partner frequently reschedules meetings at the last minute, avoids discussing important details, or seems unwilling to compromise, these may be signs that the collaboration could become more challenging than productive. —Benjamin Laker, Forbes, 4 Nov. 2024

Trump's appearance also highlighted a key talking point, the assumption that Harris is unwilling to do interviews to discuss her record with unfriendly media. —Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 4 Nov. 2024

Harris was unwilling or unable to separate from Biden and provide a coherent rationale for her candidacy. —Matthew Continetti, National Review, 2 Nov. 2024

The government appears unwilling to undertake the bold steps needed—such as direct income support to households—that could drive meaningful economic rebalancing. —Zongyuan Zoe Liu, Foreign Affairs, 31 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

unwilling

adjective

un·​will·​ing ˌən-ˈwil-iŋ 

ˈən-

: not willing

unwillingly adverb

unwillingness noun