rarely

adverb

rare·​ly ˈrer-lē 

1

: not often : seldom

2

: with rare skill : excellently

3

: in an extreme or exceptional manner

Synonyms of rarely

• seldom

Examples of rarely in a Sentence

She rarely talks about her past.

Rarely do we see this kind of weather in our area.

Only rarely is surgery necessary to treat this condition.

Recent Examples on the Web

While Virginia wines have a place, the collection stretches far beyond, introducing guests to regions like Lebanon, Japan and Ukraine – places rarely represented in local wine programs. — Usa Today Network, USA Today, 29 July 2026

First, which groups in your organization are responsible for the same client or the same outcome but rarely interact? — Byrene Madden, Forbes.com, 29 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1549, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing rarely

• rarely/seldom ever
• rarely/seldom if ever

Rhymes for rarely

• unfairly
• barely
• fairly
• squarely

Kids Definition

rarely

adverb

rare·​ly ˈra(ə)r-lē 

ˈre(ə)r-

: not often : seldom