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.
The new export controls restrict technologies, chemicals, products, or software that could be used for military purposes, including some rare earth elements. Miranda Jeyaretnam, Time, 13 Jan. 2026 Most recently, China imposed export restrictions on rare earths and magnets on Japanese companies earlier this month. Maydeen Merino, The Washington Examiner, 13 Jan. 2026 Still, this project marks Japan’s first attempt to source rare earths domestically. Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 12 Jan. 2026 Others are more skeptical about whether Greenland’s critical and rare earth minerals can significantly reduce the West’s dependence on China, which produced 70% of rare earths in 2024, according to Statista. Kai Nicol-Schwarz, CNBC, 12 Jan. 2026 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 14 Jan. 2026.

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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