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

Moritz Grossmann, which expects to produce only about 400 watches this year, is happy to remain a rarity seeker's brand. — Roberta Naas, Forbes.com, 21 Aug. 2026

The arrangement between the Sheriff’s Office and fire-rescue is a rarity. — Rafael Olmeda, Sun Sentinel, 20 Aug. 2026

Today, cameras can only be used in certain areas of school grounds, if they are used at all, and remain a rarity inside elementary schools. — Colette Davidson, Christian Science Monitor, 20 Aug. 2026

The atrium is a true rarity, with a 100-foot wall of windows that line the front of the home and thick walls that retain heat for a comfortable interior temperature year-round. — Felicia Brower, Condé Nast Traveler, 19 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