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will-o'-the-wisp noun (will-o'-the-wisp or will-o'-the-wisps) 1 a light sometimes seen over marshes, caused by the combustion of marsh gas. Also called ignis fatuus. 2 any elusive or deceptive person. 3 any elusive thing, such as an unattainable goal.
ETYMOLOGY: 17c: literally 'Will of the torch', from Will short for the name William + wisp.
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Consult Chambers 21st Century Dictionary, The Chambers Thesaurus (1996) or Chambers Biographical Dictionary (1997 edition with amendments). Enter your search and choose your title from the drop-down menu.
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