rarity

noun

rar·​i·​ty ˈrer-ə-tē 

plural rarities

1

: the quality, state, or fact of being rare

2

: one that is rare

Synonyms of rarity

• exotic
• curiosity
• wonder
• oddity
• marvel

Examples of rarity in a Sentence

In most sports, athletes over the age of 50 are rarities.

Snow is a rarity in this part of the world.

He is selling most of his collection, keeping only the real rarities.

The rarity of the disease makes it difficult to diagnose.

Recent Examples on the Web

That Liverpool have made only three loan signings across the past 10 years also highlights the rarity of such moves. — Gregg Evans, New York Times, 15 Aug. 2026

Though never explicitly stated, the film’s suggestion of a lesbian relationship between the two women was a rarity of the era. — Greg Evans, Deadline, 14 Aug. 2026

In this sort of time regime, pointless, aimless time becomes a rarity, even a luxury—and an object of nostalgia. — Joshua Rothman, New Yorker, 14 Aug. 2026

The 23-year-old signal caller’s place on the Rams is a rarity. — Benjamin Royer, Oc Register, 14 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1542, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for rarity

• charity
• clarity
• parity
• verity
• alterity
• asperity
• austerity
• celerity
• dexterity
• disparity
• hilarity
• molarity

Kids Definition

rarity

noun

rar·​i·​ty ˈrar-ət-ē 

ˈrer-

plural rarities

1

: the quality, state, or fact of being rare

2

: someone or something rare