arbitrariness
arbitrariness Lexical Profile
arbitrariness Game Scores & Validity
• noun
The quality of being based on random choice or personal whim, rather than any reason, principle, or system.
"The committee sought to eliminate the arbitrariness of the grading system by introducing a standardized rubric."
The unrestrained and autocratic use of authority.
"Citizens protested against the arbitrariness of the officials who enforced the curfews selectively."
Word Nuance & Usage
In linguistics, 'arbitrariness' is a neutral technical term referring to Ferdinand de Saussure's principle that there is no natural or intrinsic connection between the sound of a word and the concept it represents.
• Rhymes for arbitrariness
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Formed in English from 'arbitrary' (from Latin arbitrarius, meaning 'depending on the will, uncertain', from arbiter 'judge, supreme ruler') and the native suffix '-ness'.