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arbitrary

/ˈɑɹ.bɪ.tɹɛ(ə).ɹi/

noun

Meaning

  • Anything arbitrary, such as an arithmetical value or a fee.

adjective

Meaning

  • (usually of a decision) Based on individual discretion or judgment; not based on any objective distinction, perhaps even made at random.

    "Benjamin Franklin's designation of "positive" and "negative" to different charges was arbitrary."

  • Determined by impulse rather than reason; heavy-handed.

  • Any, out of all that are possible.

    "The equation is true for an arbitrary value of x."

  • Determined by independent arbiter.

  • Not representative or symbolic; not iconic.