First Known Use: 1561
Dictionary
1random
noun ran·dom \ˈran-dəm\
Definition of RANDOM
: a haphazard course
— at random
: without definite aim, direction, rule, or method <subjects chosen at random>
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Origin of RANDOM
Middle English, succession, surge, from Anglo-French randun, from Old French randir to run, of Germanic origin; akin to Old High German rinnan to run — more at run
2random
adjective
: chosen, done, etc., without a particular plan or pattern
Full Definition of RANDOM
1
a : lacking a definite plan, purpose, or pattern b : made, done, or chosen at random <read random passages from the book>
2
a : relating to, having, or being elements or events with definite probability of occurrence <random processes> b : being or relating to a set or to an element of a set each of whose elements has equal probability of occurrence <a random sample>; also : characterized by procedures designed to obtain such sets or elements <random sampling>
— ran·dom·ly adverb
— ran·dom·ness noun
See random defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of RANDOM
1632
Related to RANDOM
- Synonyms
- aimless, arbitrary, catch-as-catch-can, desultory, erratic, haphazard, helter-skelter, hit-or-miss, scattered, slapdash, stray
- Antonyms
- methodical (also methodic), nonrandom, orderly, organized, regular, systematic, systematized
Synonym Discussion of RANDOM
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>.
3random
adverb
Definition of RANDOM
: in a random manner
First Known Use of RANDOM
1618
Other Mathematics and Statistics Terms
RANDOMLY Defined for Kids
random
adjective ran·dom \ˈran-dəm\
Definition of RANDOM for Kids
: lacking a clear plan, purpose, or pattern <I read a random selection of poems.>
— ran·dom·ly adverb
— ran·dom·ness noun
Learn More About RANDOM
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