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

: rare earth element

Examples of rare earth in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The next Congress and potential 2028 candidates could outline realistic plans for reducing dependence on China for active pharmaceutical ingredients, rare earths, and potential future chokepoints. — Ali Wyne, Foreign Affairs, 29 Oct. 2026

Under the new grant, Caravel plans to expand its platform to additional enzyme classes for existing customers and work toward pilot deployments in applications including DNA synthesis, carbon capture and rare earth separations. — Alexandra Harrell, Footwear News, 29 Oct. 2026

The team also introduced magnetic properties to MXenes through the addition of rare earth elements. — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 29 Oct. 2026

Washington wants access to Brazil’s vast trove of rare earths to reduce its defense industry’s reliance on China. — Isabel Debre, Los Angeles Times, 26 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1875, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for rare earth

• afterbirth
• berth
• birth
• dearth
• firth
• girth
• mirth
• worth
• childbirth
• rebirth
• stillbirth
• tamworth

Medical Definition

rare earth

noun

ˌrer-ˈərth 

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

: rare earth element