at-will
|at-will|
C1
/æt ˈwɪl/
freedom of choice
Etymology
Etymology Information
'at-will' originates from Middle English, specifically the phrase 'at wille,' where 'at' meant 'in accordance with' and 'wille' meant 'desire or choice.'
Historical Evolution
'at wille' transformed into the modern English phrase 'at-will,' maintaining its original meaning of acting according to one's desire.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'acting according to one's desire,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
referring to a type of employment or contract that can be terminated by either party at any time without cause.
The company has an at-will employment policy, allowing them to terminate employees without notice.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:42