Arbitrariness
/ˌɑːr.bɪˈtrɛə.nəs/noun
The quality of being based on random choice or personal whim, rather than any reason or system.
Did you know?The concept of arbitrariness in language suggests that the connection between words and their meanings is purely social, like a spell that only works if we believe in it!
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
arbitrarius
“Pertaining to judgment or decision made by personal choice.”
Old French
Old French
arbitraire
“Pertaining to a judge, based on discretion.”
14th Century
Middle English
arbitrarie
“Based on the will or judgment of an authority.”
Modern English
English
arbitrariness
“The state or quality of being determined by personal whim rather than reason.”
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