WORD MEANING
Willy-nilly meaning
WIL-ee-NIL-ee · adverb
In a random or unplanned manner; without direction or choice.
See all 16 words from the August 10, 2026 puzzle →Other meanings
Whether one wants to or not; reluctantly or inevitably.
In a disorganized or haphazard way.
The term can be used as an adverb or adjective and is often hyphenated.
Examples
He accepted the invitation willy-nilly, without much thought.
Decisions were made willy-nilly, causing confusion among the team.