stochastic

adjective

sto·​chas·​tic stə-ˈka-stik  stō- 

1

: random

specifically : involving a random variable

a stochastic process

2

: involving chance or probability : probabilistic

a stochastic model of radiation-induced mutation

stochastically

stə-ˈka-sti-k(ə-)lē 

adverb

Examples of stochastic in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Call it stochastic terrorism, ordered through the public channels of the Internet rather than through hidden networks, deniable even when its true causes are as plain as day. —Justin E. H. Smith, Foreign Affairs, 4 Nov. 2020

And now the reason this stochastic formulation makes sense is that things happen by chance sometimes. —quantamagazine.org, 15 Oct. 2024

The uptrend line would be a natural place for the stock to stabilize, noting the stochastic oscillator is deep in oversold territory. —Katie Stockton, CNBC, 14 Oct. 2024

Clarke said stochastic terrorism, however, is complex, because those who peddle conspiracy theories and incendiary narratives often deny any relation to violence that may follow. —Odette Yousef, NPR, 17 Sep. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Greek stochastikos skillful in aiming, from stochazesthai to aim at, guess at, from stochos target, aim, guess — more at sting

First Known Use

1934, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Medical Definition

stochastic

adjective

sto·​chas·​tic stə-ˈkas-tik  stō- 

1

: involving a random variable

a stochastic process

2

: involving chance or probability

a stochastic model of radiation-induced mutation

stochastically

-ti-k(ə-)lē 

adverb