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
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This was an apparent veiled reference to China’s export curbs on rare earths vital for the world’s energy transition, as well as defense and digital technology. Reuters 3 Hr Ago, CNN Money, 22 Nov. 2025 Washington’s recent investments in rare earth firms MP Materials and Vulcan Elements as well as minerals agreements with Australia and Southeast Asian countries are a good start. Edward Fishman, Time, 21 Nov. 2025 In reality, rare earths aren't that rare, but just difficult to extract and refine. Scott Neuman, NPR, 21 Nov. 2025 The company, like several automakers, has been grappling with a chip shortage, disrupted supplies of rare earth materials, and fallout from a September fire at one of its aluminum suppliers. Akash Sriram, USA Today, 21 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 26 Nov. 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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