random
adjectiverandom definition & meaning
- lacking any definite plan or order or purpose; governed by or depending on chance
Examples of random in a sentence
As a adjective
- The random selection process ensured fairness
- She picked a random book from the shelf
Synonyms for random
- haphazard
- arbitrary
- erratic
- unpredictable
- chance
- capricious
- sporadic
- aimless
- casual
Rhymes with random
- tandem
- fandom
Related words to random
Chance
Unpredictable
Stochastic
Arbitrary
Haphazard
Aleatory
Fortuitous
Erratic
Accidental
Spontaneous
Word history
Etymology
The word "random" originates from the Middle English term "randoun," which meant "impetuous headlong rush." This, in turn, was derived from the Old French "randon," signifying "speed" or "impetuosity." The Old French term comes from the verb "randir," meaning "to run fast" or "to gallop," which is likely of Germanic origin. The root can be traced back to the Frankish word "*rant," meaning "a running" or "a race," and is related to the Old High German "rinnan," meaning "to run."
In English, the meaning evolved from the notion of speed and impetuosity to imply a lack of order or predictability. By the late 14th century, "random" was used to describe actions done without a definite aim or pattern, reflecting the idea of something occurring by chance. The modern sense of "random" as "haphazard" or "unpredictable" became more prevalent in the 19th century. The evolution of the word reflects a shift from physical movement to abstract concepts of unpredictability and lack of order.
How many points is random worth in Scrabble?
Total points
9
Per letter points
R1A1N1D2O1M3
Dictionary check
- Offcl. Scrabble Pl. Dict. & Offcl Scrabble WordsYES
- Collins Scrabble Words 2021YES
- NASPA Word List 2020YES
- Tournament Word List 2006YES
- Words with Friends 2000YES
- Words with Friends 1997 (Retired)YES