Definition of "wilful"

Knowingly or unknowingly, every therapist assumes that each client possesses the capacity to change through willful choice.

2005, Irvin D. Yalom with Molyn Leszcz, The Theory and Practice of Group Psychotherapy, page 182

Mary had taken the whim into her willful head, and Jane could not dissuade her.

1893, Edwin Caskoden, When Knighthood Was in Flower, page 110

"He's as willful as you," Rizpah said. "If you let him hurt himself again, so help me, I'll — "

1995, Francine Rivers, As Sure as the Dawn, page 232

You had a pampered upbringing, and possessed enough of a willful streak that I wanted to slap you at times

2007, Roger K. Thomas, Kinshu: Autumn Brocade, translation of original by Teru Miyamoto, page 136