living will [AS, libben + willa, wish] , 1. an advance declaration by a patient that if he or she is determined to be hopelessly and terminally ill, the patient does not want to be connected to life support equipment. See also durable power of attorney for health care. 2. a written agreement between a patient and physician to withhold heroic measures if the patient’s condition is found to be irreversible. See also advance directive.
