Definition & Meaning of "voluntary"in English

voluntary

ADJECTIVE

working without pay

Examples

He participated in a voluntary program to help teach children in underserved communities.

The voluntary nature of the service meant that no one was paid for their time.

done by one's own free will or choice

Examples

She made a voluntary donation to the charity.

Attendance at the workshop is completely voluntary.

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

Examples

The patient performed voluntary exercises to strengthen his arm.

Voluntary movements, like waving, are consciously controlled.

Voluntary

NOUN

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

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.

A Baroque voluntary echoed through the cathedral at the close of the service.

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.

As a voluntary, he underwent basic training alongside career soldiers.

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