haphazard

[hap-haz-erd, hap-haz-erd]

adjective

1. characterized by lack of order or planning, by irregularity, or by randomness; determined by or dependent on chance; aimless.

   Synonyms: helter-skelter, slapdash, careless, unsystematic, disorganized
   Antonyms: organized, systematic, methodical

adverb

1. haphazardly.

noun

1. mere chance; accident.

haphazard

/ hæpˈhæzəd /

adverb

1. at random

adjective

1. careless; slipshod

noun

1. rare,  chance

Other Word Forms

• haphazardly adverb
• haphazardness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of haphazard¹

First recorded in 1565–75; hap ¹ + hazard

Example Sentences

Yet when he spoke following the haphazard 2-1 Europa League defeat on Thursday, there was a enervating familiarity about how the Rangers head coach explained away the outcome.

From BBC

Feltner said he and his wife planted fruit trees in their own yard, but wonder if it’ll be safe to eat the fruit when they go back home, given widespread contamination and haphazard testing.

From Los Angeles Times

Perfect for haphazard schedules and ever-changing plans, it’s a dish I count on.

From Salon

But this haphazard proposal, with no ring, no reason, at a random bar?

From Los Angeles Times

Aid groups and governments have excoriated the GHF’s efforts as paltry, inefficient and haphazard.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• aimless 
• arbitrary 
• careless 
• casual 
• desultory 
• disorganized 
• erratic 
• half-assed 
• helter-skelter 
• indiscriminate 
• offhand 
• random 
• slapdash 
• uncoordinated