ill-willer
(ˈɪlˈwɪlə(r))
[Late ME., f. ill adv. (or n.) + willer: cf. the earlier il-willand n. (see next) in same sense; also the parallel evil-willer, well-willer, and the expressions to will one ill, evil, or well.]
One who wishes evil to another; one who cherishes ill will or hostile feeling.
| c 1500 Melusine 211, I haue be yl wyller bothe to you & to your lady [cf. 158 ayenst alle your euyl willers]. 1557 Paynel Barclay's Jugurth 87 Al the purposes of mine yllwyllers and aduersaries. 1678 Marvell Def. Howe Wks. 1875 IV. 230 He seems to be no ill-willer to transubstantiation. 1690 Andros Tracts II. 28 Some of those Male⁓contents and Ill-wilers of their Neighbours. 1780 Johnson Lett. to Mrs. Thrale 21 June, His illwillers are very unwilling to think he can ever more sit in parliament. [Not in J.'s Dict.] 1828 Scott F.M. Perth xix, I have ill-willers enough. 1876 Bancroft Hist. U.S. I. ix. 285 Ill-willers to New England were already railing against its people. |