Definition of the word random

The word "random" has its roots in the 14th century. It originated from the Old French word "rançon," meaning "ransom" or "chance." This is because in the Middle Ages, a "random" decision was one that was made by chance or fate, rather than by deliberate choice. For example, a person might make a "random" choice by flipping a coin or drawing a card from a deck. Over time, the meaning of the word expanded to include ideas of chance, unpredictability, or lack of method or design. Today, "random" is often used to describe events or actions that are unplanned or unpredictable, or to describe something that is chosen or arranged in a way that is not systematic or deliberate.