haphazard

[ adjective adverb hap-haz-erd; noun 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: unsystematic, helter-skelter, slapdash, careless, 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

Derived Forms

• hapˈhazardly, adverb
• hapˈhazardness, noun

Other Words From

• hap·hazard·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of haphazard¹

First recorded in 1565–75; hap ¹ + hazard

Example Sentences

We see fathers and sons torn apart by the rise of the Revolutionary War, fears of technological innovations, and a rather haphazard discussion between a Black family about how to handle the police.

From Salon

But he played down the idea of an organised supply chain, insisting the smuggling system was more like a haphazard series of stepping stones, with each stage controlled by separate gangs.

From BBC

As the Dodgers piled on the runs — again — the Mets increasingly ran out of the batter’s box with quick swings and offered only minor mound resistance with haphazard pitching.

From Los Angeles Times

While Eisenberg's character David is cerebral and family-oriented, Culkin's Benji is haphazard and rebellious.

From BBC

While Puerto Ricans can't vote in U.S. elections, Trump's haphazard response to Hurricane Maria never faded.

From Salon

Related Words

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