Arbitrary: Learn the meaning of arbitrary

Learn the meaning of arbitrary , an adjective that describes something based on chance or personal power rather than reason or rules. Find out how to use it in sentences and explore related words and phrases. The adjective ' arbitrary ' has its roots in the Latin word 'arbitrarius,' which originally meant 'dependent on the judgment of an arbiter or judge.' It derives from 'arbiter,' meaning 'judge' or 'witness,' as mentioned earlier. Over time, the term evolved to encompass the idea of decisions made by personal judgment rather than adhering to established rules or principles. In English, ' arbitrary ' describes something that is based on individual discretion or personal opinion rather than ... Arbitrary definition: subject to individual will or judgment without restriction ; contingent solely upon one's discretion.. See examples of ARBITRARY used in a sentence. Definition of arbitrary adjective from the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. (of an action, a decision, a rule, etc.) not seeming to be based on a reason, system or plan and sometimes seeming unfair. The choice of players for the team seemed completely arbitrary . He makes unpredictable, arbitrary decisions.