arbitrary – Based on chance rather than planning or reason

(Pronounced ar-bit-rerry)

To remember the definition of the word arbitrary, use the following mnemonic:

Her arse was bitten by a hairy dog (arbitrary) but this was by chance because the dog was blind.

Examples of arbitrary in a sentence

In spite of the cold weather, we made an arbitrary trip to the beach.

Because the group could not come to a decision on lunch, Katherine made an arbitrary choice and ordered pizza.

Emily made an arbitrary decision to drive across the country.