offhand

American  

[awf-hand, of-] / ˈɔfˈhænd, ˈɒf- /

adverb

1. cavalierly, curtly, or brusquely.

   to reply offhand.

   Synonyms:

   abruptly, shortly, short

2. without previous thought or preparation; extempore.

   to decide offhand to take a trip.

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adjective

1. informal, casual, curt, or brusque.

   an offhand manner.

   Synonyms:

   extempore, impromptu

2. Also offhanded. done or made offhand.

   Synonyms:

   extempore, impromptu

   Antonyms:

   considered

3. Glassmaking. working manually and without the use of molds.

   offhand blowing.

offhand British  

/ ˌɒfˈhænd /

adjective

1. without care, thought, or consideration; sometimes, brusque or ungracious

   an offhand manner

2. without preparation or warning; impromptu

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Other Word Forms

• offhandedly adverb
• offhandedness noun

Etymology

Origin of offhand

First recorded in 1685–95; off + hand

Example Sentences

Ward’s section is easily recognizable as his work in its mix of the uncanny and the offhand, both from “Adventure Time” and the psychedelic “Midnight Gospel.”

From Los Angeles Times

There’s outrage underneath every offhand remark and heartbreak in watching this fraying community turn on each other.

From Los Angeles Times

MLB commissioner Rob Manfred caused a stir when he floated a potential seismic rule by floating, making an offhand comment about the golden batter rule.

From Los Angeles Times

This adds yet another moment to his archive of offhand imperial delusions.

From Salon

The comment is offhand, meant to soothe rather than impress because Bifano works with the rich and famous every day as a master rosarian and garden designer.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• casual
• curt
• easygoing
• folksy
• glib
• perfunctory