scarcity

noun

scar·​ci·​ty ˈsker-sə-tē 

-stē

plural scarcities

: the quality or state of being scarce

especially : want of provisions for the support of life

Synonyms of scarcity

• shortage
• lack

Examples of scarcity in a Sentence

Scarcity of food forced the herds to move.

the scarcity of good restaurants around here is surprising

Recent Examples on the Web

Keynes assumed that once material scarcity eased, human beings would naturally turn towards the art of living. — Belonging Forum, Forbes.com, 22 July 2026

This is sensible, given the potential for tragedy among not only military aviators but civilians, as well as the cost and scarcity of military assets. — Brynn Tannehill, The Atlantic, 21 July 2026

That scarcity has fundamentally changed the way deals happen. — Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 21 July 2026

Inflation, blackouts, water scarcity, and police abuse persist at the same levels that preceded the American intervention. — Rafael Osío Cabrices, Time, 20 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

scarcity

noun

scar·​ci·​ty ˈsker-sət-ē 

ˈskar-

plural scarcities

: the quality or state of being scarce : a very small supply