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rare earth

noun

1
: any of a group of similar oxides of metals or a mixture of such oxides occurring together in widely distributed but relatively scarce minerals
2

Examples of rare earth in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Washington agreed to roll back steep tariffs on Chinese exports in exchange for Beijing cracking down on illicit fentanyl trade, pausing export controls of rare earths and resuming purchases of American soybeans. Anniek Bao, CNBC, 1 Dec. 2025 Several years later, in 2010, the detention of a Chinese fisherman by Japanese forces in disputed water caused a temporary embargo on rare earth exports, something Japanese industry is heavily reliant on. Kerry Brown, Time, 28 Nov. 2025 Similarly, Chinese export controls on rare earths would choke our own innovation and competitiveness in emerging technologies. Phillip Molnar, San Diego Union-Tribune, 27 Nov. 2025 China already dominates the production and refining of rare earths, which are essential for defense and technology manufacturing. semafor.com, 27 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for rare earth

Word History

First Known Use

1875, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of rare earth was in 1875

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Cite this Entry

“Rare earth.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rare%20earth. Accessed 4 Dec. 2025.

Medical Definition

rare earth

noun
1
: any of a group of similar oxides of metals or a mixture of such oxides occurring together in widely distributed but relatively scarce minerals
2
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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