Entry Word: rare

Function: adjective

Meaning: 1 being out of the ordinary <even among the prize roses, this one is a rare beauty> — see exceptional
2 having qualities that appeal to a refined taste <rare specialty wools, such as cashmere, prized for their fineness, lightness and exceptional warmth> — see choice
3 not often occurring or repeated <the French pronunciation of the familyʼs name is rare, except in Louisiana> — see infrequent
4 noticeably different from what is generally found or experienced <“Such good manners are rare these days,” remarked Mrs. Denby, as the young man let her go ahead of him in line> — see unusual 1