Definitions

unwilling

[uhn-wil-ing] / ʌnˈwɪl ɪŋ /

ADJECTIVE

not in the mood

Synonyms

STRONGEST

afraid averse compelled evasive forced loath reluctant resistant unenthusiastic

WEAK

against against the grain backward begrudging contrary demurring disinclined disobliging grudging hesitating indisposed indocile involuntary laggard malcontent opposed recalcitrant refractory remiss shrinking shy slack slow unaccommodating uncheerful uncooperative uneager uninclined unobliging unready unwishful wayward

Antonyms

STRONGEST

eager enthusiastic ready willing

WEAK

prepared

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Since then, you have been unable, and the Treasury has been unwilling, to commit the resources that the nation needs to defend the country at this time of rising threats.

From BBC • Jun. 11, 2026

“This could be a sign that businesses think consumers are unwilling or unable to absorb further cost increases,” said chief economist Bill Adams of Fifth Third Commercial Bank.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 10, 2026

With the Knicks in the Finals for the first time in a generation, New Yorkers have become increasingly unwilling to tolerate fence-sitting — even from one of the world’s most famously friendly Muppets.

From Salon • Jun. 7, 2026

Attitudes toward the test are changing, with students and parents more and more unwilling to trade physical and mental health for high test scores.

From Barron's • Jun. 7, 2026

But unwilling to hazard the responsibility, she let me in, and presently brought the sharp message that I was to “come up.”

From "Great Expectations" by Charles Dickens

unwilling

Example Sentences

Related Words