unwillingly
|un-will-ing-ly|
B2
/ʌnˈwɪlɪŋli/
(unwilling)
not willing
Etymology
Etymology Information
'unwillingly' originates from the Old English word 'unwillende,' where 'un-' meant 'not' and 'willende' meant 'willing.'
Historical Evolution
'unwillende' transformed into the Middle English word 'unwilling,' and eventually became the modern English word 'unwillingly.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'not willing,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adverb 1
in a manner that is not willing or enthusiastic.
She unwillingly agreed to help with the project.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:40
