First Known Use: 1575
Dictionary
1haphazard
noun hap·haz·ard \(ˌ)hap-ˈha-zərd\
Definition of HAPHAZARD
: chance 1
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Origin of HAPHAZARD
1hap + hazard
Rhymes with HAPHAZARD
2haphazard
adjective
: having no plan, order, or direction
Full Definition of HAPHAZARD
: marked by lack of plan, order, or direction
— haphazard adverb
— hap·haz·ard·ly adverb
— hap·haz·ard·ness noun
— hap·haz·ard·ry \-zər-drē\ noun
See haphazard defined for English-language learners
See haphazard defined for kids
First Known Use of HAPHAZARD
1671
Related to HAPHAZARD
- Synonyms
- aimless, arbitrary, catch-as-catch-can, desultory, erratic, random, helter-skelter, hit-or-miss, scattered, slapdash, stray
- Antonyms
- methodical (also methodic), nonrandom, orderly, organized, regular, systematic, systematized
Synonym Discussion of HAPHAZARD
random, haphazard, casual mean determined by accident rather than design. random stresses lack of definite aim, fixed goal, or regular procedure <a random selection of books>. haphazard applies to what is done without regard for regularity or fitness or ultimate consequence <a haphazard collection of rocks>. casual suggests working or acting without deliberation, intention, or purpose <a casual collector>.
Rhymes with HAPHAZARD
HAPHAZARDLY Defined for Kids
haphazard
adjective hap·haz·ard \hap-ˈha-zərd\
Definition of HAPHAZARD for Kids
: marked by lack of plan, order, or direction <We took a haphazard route.>
— hap·haz·ard·ly adverb
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