Will, n.3
Abbreviated pet-form of the Christian name William (cf. Piers Plowman B. xiv. 148, Shakes. Sonn. cxxxvi, etc.). b. dial. = will-o'-the-wisp.
| a 1718 Parnell Fairy Tale 157 Will, who bears the wispy fire To trail the swains among the mire. 1750 Collins Ode Superstit. Highlands 91 Let not dank Will mislead you to the heath. 1888 Fenn Dick o' the Fens viii, You may go right into the bog and be smothered, and that's what the wills like. |