Synonyms of willpower

willpower

noun

ˈwil-ˌpau̇(-ə)r 

as in restraint

the power to control one's actions, impulses, or emotions

trying to summon the willpower to resist buying any more books before finishing the unread ones I already have

Synonyms & Similar Words

• restraint
• self-control
• determination
• nerve
• self-discipline
• will
• temperance
• composure
• self-restraint
• self-mastery
• discipline
• confidence
• temperateness
• self-command
• self-government
• self-possession
• continence
• self-containment
• moderation
• assurance
• mastery
• abnegation
• self-denial
• control
• abstention
• self-confidence
• self-abnegation
• avoidance
• abstinence
• sobriety
• forbearance
• moderateness
• soberness
• poise
• equanimity
• coolness
• command
• discretion
• aplomb
• eschewal

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• indulgence
• gratification
• overindulgence
• weakness
• intemperance
• failing
• excessiveness
• vice
• feebleness
• self-indulgence
• fault
• shortcoming
• frailty
• demerit
• foible
• intemperateness
• indiscipline
• immoderacy
• unrestraint
• unconstraint
• unreserve
• unreservedness

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of willpower

Weak laws and weaker willpower A recent Gallup poll found the majority of Americans, 56% to 58%, want stricter gun laws, while measures like background checks has close to 90% support in both parties, per Pew. — Catherina Gioino, Fortune, 15 Sep. 2026

For one season, before recovery and routine returned, the players stripped away all pretense and showed their hearts and willpower. — Jerry Brewer, New York Times, 9 Sep. 2026

Research shows that willpower is a finite resource that becomes depleted throughout the day. — Dr. Erika Rasure, Forbes.com, 9 Sep. 2026

Despite months of negotiations, Tehran and Washington seem poised to keep fighting on and off in an effort to wear down the other’s materiel and willpower. — Dina Esfandiary, Foreign Affairs, 27 Aug. 2026