rarity

noun

rar·​i·​ty ˈrer-ə-tē 

plural rarities

1

: the quality, state, or fact of being rare

2

: one that is rare

Synonyms of rarity

• exotic
• curiosity
• wonder
• oddity
• marvel

Examples of rarity in a Sentence

In most sports, athletes over the age of 50 are rarities.

Snow is a rarity in this part of the world.

He is selling most of his collection, keeping only the real rarities.

The rarity of the disease makes it difficult to diagnose.

Recent Examples on the Web

Explosions in their heavily fortified capitals are a rarity, and two in as many days have put officials in India, Pakistan and Afghanistan on edge, potentially reigniting a cycle of suspicion and blame after what has already been a tense year for all countries. —Rhea Mogul, CNN Money, 12 Nov. 2025

While some older coins may hold additional appeal to collectors due to their rarity or condition, they technically can still be used for their original intended purpose of transactions. —Jalen Williams, Freep.com, 12 Nov. 2025

But for a tourbillon chronograph, outside of the world of niche independents, that figure borders on reasonable, given the rarity of such complexity from a major Swiss marque. —Thor Svaboe, Robb Report, 12 Nov. 2025

Black swans were once associated with rarity and, ultimately, deception. —Kate McGregor, Architectural Digest, 12 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1542, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for rarity

• charity
• clarity
• parity
• verity
• alterity
• asperity
• austerity
• celerity
• dexterity
• disparity
• hilarity
• molarity

Kids Definition

rarity

noun

rar·​i·​ty ˈrar-ət-ē 

ˈrer-

plural rarities

1

: the quality, state, or fact of being rare

2

: someone or something rare