random

adjective

random 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
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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.

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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

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