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• random access
  random access

  noun

  the capacity of a videodisc or compact disc player that allows the user to select and replay any portion without starting at the beginning.
• random-access
  random-access

  adjective

  direct-access.

random access

¹ American  

noun

1. the capacity of a videodisc or compact disc player that allows the user to select and replay any portion without starting at the beginning.

2. availability, as of a service or facility, whenever needed or desired.

   an executive's need for random access to legal experts.

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random-access ² American  

[ran-duhm-ak-ses] / ˈræn dəmˈæk sɛs /

adjective

Computers.

1. direct-access.

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random access British  

noun

1. another name for direct access

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Etymology

Origin of random access

First recorded in 1950–55

Example Sentences

That means easy access to excellent hiking, mountain biking and guided fly-fishing excursions on sought-after rivers and streams, including the Madison and Gallatin rivers.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jul. 8, 2026

Thanks to retractable glass walls, the entire property feels connected as there’s easy access to the outdoors.

From MarketWatch • May 21, 2026

"If he didn't do what he did, and sacrifice his life, the two suspects would have had easy access to every single classroom," said the mosque's imam, Taha Hassane.

From Barron's • May 19, 2026

There is easy access down to the riverside in numerous locations on both sides of the water and shallow bankings nearby.

From BBC • May 2, 2026

We keep the pot full so we can have easy access to the water for we fear we will fall in if we have to reach to the bottom.

From "First They Killed My Father: A Daughter of Cambodia Remembers" by Loung Ung