adjective / adverb / noun
random
RAN-duhm/ˈrændəm/
Lacking an intended or predictable pattern.
The blindfolded woman's draw selects a ball at random from the mixed bowl.
Etymology
Old French randon meant a rush or impetuous movement. English “at random” shifted from “at great speed” to “carelessly, haphazardly,” leading to the sense of having no definite aim or plan.
In context
None of those actions had been random. Every movement had carried purpose
More examples
- We draw names at random to choose the teams.
- A couple of randoms wander into our party.
- That random comment has nothing to do with our discussion.
Forms
random · randoms · more random · most random
randomly adverb — Without a definite plan or predictable pattern.
randomness noun — The absence of a predictable pattern.
Similar words
- haphazard
- Done without care or planning, often resulting in disorder.
- unpredictable
- Impossible to anticipate reliably, even when an underlying pattern exists.
- arbitrary
- Chosen by personal preference or whim, not necessarily by chance.