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Definition of Arbitrary
1. Adjective. Based on or subject to individual discretion or preference or sometimes impulse or caprice. "Arbitrary division of the group into halves"
Derivative terms: Arbitrariness
Antonyms: Nonarbitrary
Definition of Arbitrary
1. a. Depending on will or discretion; not governed by any fixed rules; as, an arbitrary decision; an arbitrary punishment.
Definition of Arbitrary
1. Adjective. (context: usually of a decision) Based on individual discretion or judgment; not based on any objective distinction, perhaps even made at random. ¹
2. Adjective. Determined by impulse rather than reason; heavy-handed. ¹
3. Adjective. (mathematics) Any and all possible. ¹
4. Adjective. Determined by independent arbiter. ¹
¹ Source: wiktionary.com
Definition of Arbitrary
1. [adj]
Medical Definition of Arbitrary
1.
1. Depending on will or discretion; not governed by any fixed rules; as, an arbitrary decision; an arbitrary punishment. "It was wholly arbitrary in them to do so." (Jer. Taylor) "Rank pretends to fix the value of every one, and is the most arbitrary of all things." (Landor)
2. Exercised according to one's own will or caprice, and therefore conveying a notion of a tendency to abuse the possession of power. "Arbitrary power is most easily established on the ruins of liberty abused licentiousness." (Washington)
3. Despotic; absolute in power; bound by no law; harsh and unforbearing; tyrannical; as, an arbitrary prince or government.
Lexicographical Neighbors of Arbitrary
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