arbitrary

noun

Anything arbitrary, such as an arithmetical value or a fee.

adjective

(usually of a decision) Based on individual discretion or judgment; not based on any objective distinction, perhaps even made at random.

Determined by impulse rather than reason; often connoting heavy-handedness.

(mathematics) Any, out of all that are possible.

Determined by independent arbiter.

(linguistics) Not representative or symbolic; not iconic.

Roots

baeterearbiter- · Latin · to go, come

Synonyms for arbitrary

capriciousadj randomadj unreasonableadj reasonlessadj irrationaladj vagariousadj discretionaryadj dictatorialadj inconsistentadj whimsicaladj

Synonyms & related words for arbitrary

Find synonyms, related words, and the definition of arbitrary — including capricious, random, unreasonable, reasonless, irrational, vagarious. Dendril is a free visual thesaurus that shows them on an interactive map where stronger matches sit closer to the center — no signup, no ads.

Words related to arbitrary

Explore words related to arbitrary — words associated with it, words that go with it, and its nearest matches in meaning. Related words include arbitrariness, unjust, unjustified, unwarranted, illogical, nonrandom, capriciously, haphazard. Click any word to make it the center of the map and keep exploring the web of connections.

Synonyms for arbitrary

Common synonyms for arbitrary include capricious, random, unreasonable, reasonless, irrational, vagarious, discretionary, dictatorial — words that share a close meaning. Hover or tap any word on the map for its definition and part of speech.

Where does arbitrary come from?

The word arbitrary breaks down into one root of Latin origin: the root arbiter-, from Latin baetere (“to go, come”). Explore each root to see other English words built from the same source.