Definition of "desultory" in English

adjective

1. Jumping, or passing, from one thing or subject to another, without order, planning, or rational connection; lacking logical sequence.

   • He wandered round, cleaning up in a desultory way.
   • I teach a class of desultory minds.
   • subject to desultory fire from the enemy

2. Out of course; by the way; not connected with the subject.

   • I made a desultory remark while I was talking to my friend.
   • She made a desultory attempt at conversation.

3. Disappointing in performance or progress.

   • Near-synonyms: half-assed, halfhearted

4. (obsolete) Leaping, skipping or flitting about, generally in a random or unsteady manner.