Main Entry: ¹rare

Pronunciation: \ˈrer\

Function: adjective

Inflected Form(s): rar·er; rar·est

Etymology: Middle English, from Latin rarus

Date: 14th century

1 : marked by wide separation of component particles : thin <rare air>
2 a : marked by unusual quality, merit, or appeal : distinctive b : superlative or extreme of its kind
3 : seldom occurring or found : uncommon

synonyms see choice, infrequent

— rare·ness noun