haphazard

American  

[hap-haz-erd, hap-haz-erd] / hæpˈhæz ərd, ˈhæpˌhæz ərd /

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

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adverb

1. haphazardly.

noun

1. mere chance; accident.

haphazard British  

/ hæpˈhæzəd /

adverb

1. at random

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adjective

1. careless; slipshod

noun

1. rare chance

Other Word Forms

• haphazardly adverb
• haphazardness noun

Etymology

Origin of haphazard

First recorded in 1565–75; hap ¹ + hazard

Example Sentences

“Those who are unrealistic, hasty, reckless, and haphazard in their efforts, will be held strictly accountable,” he added.

From Barron's

“Have you seen our loos? They’re literally in a wooden shed and they’re cold,” Gyngell told the Telegraph, adding: “Service can be very haphazard and there’s nothing fancy or clever about our food.”

From The Wall Street Journal

Even with a somewhat haphazard marketing strategy, Cursor’s growth has ballooned in 2025.

From The Wall Street Journal

After several haphazard attempts with the “Frozen” and “Moana” franchises, “Zootopia 2” can take the title as Disney’s most effective animated sequel yet.

From Los Angeles Times

It was perhaps the haphazard approach to cataloging that allowed one of the most impressive artifacts to sit unnoticed—first in an open courtyard and then in a remote corner of the museum.

From Literature

Related Words

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