voluntary
Pronunciation
/ˈvɑɫəntɛɹi/

Definition & Meaning of "voluntary"in English

voluntary
01

working without pay

voluntary definition and meaning
Examples
He participated in a voluntary program to help teach children in underserved communities.
02

done by one's own free will or choice

Grammatical Information
Composition
Simple
qualitative
Superlative
most voluntary
Comparative
more voluntary
gradable
Examples
She made a voluntary donation to the charity.
03

controlled or initiated by an individual's own decision or volition

Examples
The patient performed voluntary exercises to strengthen his arm.
Voluntary
01

a musical piece, typically for organ, performed as part of a church service, often before or after the liturgy

Grammatical Information
Animacy status
Inanimate
Composition
Compound
Countable
Plural form
voluntaries

What is a "voluntary"?

A voluntary is a musical composition, typically for organ, played during church services, often before or after the main parts of the service. It is designed to provide an uplifting or reflective atmosphere and may vary in style and length. The voluntary can serve as an introduction to the service or as a closing piece, and it is often performed during moments when there is no other specific music or when the congregation is entering or leaving the church.

Examples
The organist played a solemn voluntary as the congregation entered the chapel.
02

an individual who joins the armed forces by choice, rather than through conscription or obligation

Examples
The voluntary signed up for duty just days after the war was declared.
LanGeek
Download LanGeek app
langeek application

Download Mobile App

App Store