Definition of wilful

The word "willful" originated in Middle English around the 14th century. It comes from the Old French word "volontel," which meant "willing" or "desiring." The Old French "volontel" can be traced back to the Latin word "voluntarius," which meant "willing" or "eager." The Latin root "volunt-" comes from the verb "volo," meaning "I want" or "I wish." Over time, the Middle English word "willfull" took on a more negative connotation, referring to someone who acted with an obstinate or defiant disobedience to authorities or others in a position of authority. It came to be associated with deliberate disregard for laws, rules, or expectations, similar to the modern English meaning of "willful" as an adjective. However, the word "willful" can also be used as a noun, especially in legal contexts. In law, a "willful" act is one that is done intentionally or knowingly, without excuse or justification. This sense of the word "willful" is closely related to its original meaning of "willing." In summary, the origin of the word "willful" can be traced back to the Old French "volontel," which derived from the Latin root "volunt-." Over time, the meaning of the word evolved, changing from a positive connotation of "willing" to a negative one of "deliberately disobedient." Today, "willful" is used in both positive and negative contexts, as an adjective and a noun, drawing upon its historical familial roots.