WorldAugust 8, 2026

arbitrariness

AR-bih-trair-ih-nes

Definition

The quality of being based on random choice or personal whim rather than on reason, law, or consistent standards.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin word 'arbitrarius,' meaning 'depending on the will,' which comes from 'arbiter,' meaning 'judge' or 'witness.' It entered English in the 17th century to describe actions based on individual preference rather than objective rule.

In the news

In the context of the Constitution, the term refers to the unchecked, unpredictable power of government actors that violates the principles of liberty and due process. It is used to highlight the necessity of legal constraints to protect citizens from unfair treatment.

Article 21: The Constitution’s Living Promise of Liberty and Dignity

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