Velleities

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A notion that conveys having feeble or indistinct desires ; It illustrates a deficiency in resolute intent to pursue one's goals ; It also indicates the existence of unrealized aspirations that lack decisive engagement
2. A faint or passing inclination to do something without any serious attempt to follow through
3. A delicate or minimal wish that lacks the motivation or commitment to take action

Etymology: "Velleities" is the plural of "velleity," a noun for a faint wish that never turns into action. The singular comes from Medieval Latin "velleitas," formed from the Latin verb "velle," meaning "to wish" or "to will." The root is the same one that gives English "volition," the act of choosing or willing something, and the Latin verb is closely related to "volo," "I wish." The Medieval Latin coinage shows how the word's sense narrowed. Latin "velle" expressed wanting in its full sense, so the Medieval Latin suffix-based noun "velleitas" named the willing itself. English took the word with a sharper, almost ironic edge, where the wish is real but too weak to bring about anything. The plural form "velleities" is the one most often seen in writing, usually when someone is describing several half-hearted impulses at once.