haphazard
UK: hæpˈhæz.əd | US: hæpˈhæz.ɚd
adj. lacking any obvious principle of organization; random
adj. dependent on or characterized by chance
The word "haphazard" emerged in the 16th century, combining "hap" (an archaic term for luck or chance, derived from Old Norse) and "hazard" (meaning risk or danger, borrowed from Old French). Originally, "hazard" itself traces back to Arabic "al-zahr" (the dice), reflecting gambling-related uncertainty. The fusion of these two morphemes vividly captures the idea of randomness—where outcomes depend purely on luck and risk, without deliberate planning.
The books were stacked in a haphazard pile on the desk.
Their haphazard approach to the project led to many errors.
He made haphazard notes during the lecture, missing key points.
The garden grew in a haphazard manner, with no clear design.
Haphazard decisions often result in unpredictable consequences.