offhand

[awf-hand, of-]

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.

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

/ ˌɒfˈhænd /

adjective

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

   an offhand manner

2. without preparation or warning; impromptu

Other Word Forms

• offhandedness noun
• offhandedly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of offhand¹

First recorded in 1685–95; off + hand

Example Sentences

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

For all his reluctance toward certain aspects of celebrity, Fender onstage embodies the offhand fervor of a natural rock star — which isn’t to say he puts a tremendous amount of thought into his look.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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