rhyme or reason

noun

: good sense or reason

Examples of rhyme or reason in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In short, there’s a certain magic that comes with Southern nicknames that does not always have rhyme or reason, but almost always feels completely special. Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 2 Aug. 2025 Nor is there any apparent rhyme or reason to his tariffs. Christiaan Hetzner, Fortune, 12 July 2025 There was no rhyme or reason guiding what stuff went into what bag. Frederick Dreier, Outside Online, 3 July 2025 No rhyme or reason In February, Elon Musk appeared in an X Spaces event in part to discuss DOGE’s work at U.S.A.I.D. Amy Schoenfeld Walker, New York Times, 22 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for rhyme or reason

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of rhyme or reason was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Rhyme or reason.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rhyme%20or%20reason. Accessed 21 Aug. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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