Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

willy-nilly

adverb

/ˈwɪliˈnɪli/

Definition

In a careless or haphazard manner, often without choice.

Examples

The project was completed willy-nilly, resulting in several mistakes.
She accepted the outcome willy-nilly, knowing there was nothing she could do about it.

Meaning

Willy-nilly refers to doing something without a clear plan or having no real choice in the matter. It suggests a sense of randomness or lack of control.