istekli

İstekli is a Turkish adjective meaning desiring, eager, or willing. It derives from the noun istek, meaning desire or wish, together with the suffix -li, which conveys “having” or “characterized by.” The word is used to describe a person, group, or attitude that has a desire or willingness to undertake a task or action.

In usage, istekli highlights voluntary motivation rather than obligation. Common constructions include istemek or olmak: istekli olmak (to be willing) and phrases such as istekli katılımcılar or istekli çalışanlar, meaning “eager participants” or “willing workers.” It can also describe someone’s readiness to engage in a project or initiative.

In nuance, istekli is often contrasted with related terms like hevesli (enthusiastic) and gönüllü (voluntary). While hevesli emphasizes enthusiasm and drive, gönüllü emphasizes voluntary participation or volunteering; istekli sits in between, stressing a genuine willingness or desire to participate.

İstekli can also function as a Turkish surname, written with a capital İ. As with many Turkish surnames, it reflects an adjectival origin, and bearers may be found in Turkey and among Turkish diaspora communities.

See also: Turkish language; Turkish adjectives; istek.