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

The scalding becomes a metaphor for stochastic violence. —Seamus Sullivan september 29, Literary Hub, 29 Sep. 2025

While the stochastic oscillator is overbought, as long as its reading remains above 80%, the bullish signals from MACD take precedence. —Katie Stockton, CNBC, 8 Sep. 2025

One reason hinges on the fact that for over the past 30 years or so, macroeconomic models are neo-Keynesian extensions of dynamic stochastic general equilibrium (DSGE) models. —Nino Paoli, Fortune, 21 Aug. 2025

Caroline Fraser grew up in an area defined by unexpected, stochastic bursts of brutality. —Sarah Weinman, The Atlantic, 18 June 2025

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

Rhymes for stochastic

• aplastic
• bombastic
• dynastic
• dysplastic
• elastic
• fantastic
• gymnastic
• monastic
• sarcastic
• scholastic
• silastic
• aeroelastic

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