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 desert kingdom is also investing in becoming a major supplier of critical minerals, like lithium, copper and rare earths. Alex Wang, Twin Cities, 19 Oct. 2025 But the biggest card Pakistan has to play, analysts say, is access to the rare earths not controlled by China that are needed power everything from iPhones to MRI machines to the most advanced fighter jets and military weaponry. Sophia Saifi, CNN Money, 18 Oct. 2025 China produces roughly 60-70 percent of the world’s rare earth metals, creating supply chain vulnerability for industries around the globe. Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 17 Oct. 2025 China dominates nearly every stage of the rare earth supply chain. Lizzi C. Lee, Time, 17 Oct. 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 24 Oct. 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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