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

Fellow devotees should not miss this glam, affordable, old-school night out on Chicago’s North Side, celebrating live music demanding sophisticated interpretation — increasingly a rarity, alas, in our toddlin’ town. —Chris Jones, Chicago Tribune, 24 Apr. 2026

The gym connects to a secluded outdoor terrace, a rarity in New York City, that will host yoga and meditation classes. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 24 Apr. 2026

Those keeping score remain in the extreme minority, a rarity at the ballpark. —Jacob Feldman, Sportico.com, 24 Apr. 2026

The standout Indian kitchen has tandoor ovens — an industry rarity — meaning curries arrive with real naan instead of the pita many other ships pass off as a substitute. —David Dickstein, Oc Register, 22 Apr. 2026

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