1. in a manner that lacks a clear plan, purpose, or connection; in a scattered or random way
2. in a manner that jumps from one thing to another without logical sequence or continuity

Examples

• She flipped through the magazine desultorily, pausing only briefly at each page.
• The conversation wandered desultorily from topic to topic without any real direction.
• He studied desultorily for the exam, never settling on a consistent approach.
• The band played desultorily, lacking focus and energy throughout the performance.
• She browsed the bookstore desultorily, picking up and putting down titles at random.
• The investigation proceeded desultorily, with little coordination between the teams.