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

This Abu Dhabi resort focuses on sustainability—a rarity in Gulf accommodations. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 19 Jan. 2026

Production numbers were minimal, contributing to the Drone’s rarity today. —Matthew MacConnell, Forbes.com, 16 Jan. 2026

The study was completed in under two years — a rarity for major transit projects, which typically take five to seven years to clear the process. —Alex Driggars, Austin American Statesman, 16 Jan. 2026

For those looking for Marcus’s magic without the full show, à la carte is also always available, a rarity for restaurants specializing in tasting menus. —Su-Jit Lin, Southern Living, 15 Jan. 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