english word · 2026-09-07

velleity

noun

Meaning

A mere wish or inclination toward something that is not strong enough to lead to action. It represents the lowest level of volition or desire.

Derived from the Latin velle, meaning 'to wish' or 'to will'.

"His dream of traveling the world remained a velleity, never transforming into a booked flight or a packed bag."

"She felt a vague velleity to learn the piano, but the sheet music sat untouched on the stand for years."

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