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

• exotic
• wonder
• curiosity
• oddity
• curio

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

The island has a plethora of beaches—some even with proper sand, a Maine rarity! —Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 10 Sep. 2025

Antique furnishings and heirlooms from the Parker family’s time in the home give it character, yet the overall feel is fresh, welcoming, and refreshingly unfussy—a rarity among historic B&Bs. —Jill Robbins, Southern Living, 5 Sep. 2025

Plus, there’s a rooftop pool, a rarity in the neighborhood. —Kate Kassin, Bon Appetit Magazine, 5 Sep. 2025

Of course, that rarity translates right to the block, with plenty of consumers clamoring for the colorful diamonds. —Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 5 Sep. 2025

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