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

In reflecting on her role as the first woman to lead TIAA in its over 100-year history, Duckett highlighted the rarity of her position as one of only four Black female CEOs in the history of the Fortune 500. —Cheyann Harris, Fortune, 19 June 2026

But those shoppers are less motivated by logos and more interested in craftsmanship, rarity and personal connection. —Rhonda Richford, Footwear News, 17 June 2026

In related news, after years of licensing issues, the group’s 50-track rarities collection Useless Trinkets has recently returned to streaming platforms. —Spin Staff, SPIN, 16 June 2026

Lucky beachcombers may even come across rarities like Scotch bonnet and moon snails. —Skye Sherman, Southern Living, 15 June 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