scarcity

noun

scar·​ci·​ty ˈsker-sə-tē 

-stē

plural scarcities

: the quality or state of being scarce

especially : want of provisions for the support of life

Synonyms of scarcity

• shortage
• lack

Examples of scarcity in a Sentence

Scarcity of food forced the herds to move.

the scarcity of good restaurants around here is surprising

Recent Examples on the Web

For executives, founders and decision-makers considering a major domain name purchase, the challenge lies in separating scarcity from speculation or emotional attachment while understanding the true value any potential domain offers your brand. — Michael Gargiulo, Forbes.com, 16 Sep. 2026

The Rangers want Garand versus Korpisalo to be a competition, but the scarcity of preseason games and Korpisalo’s acquisition cost and cap hit make the veteran seem like the front-runner. — Peter Baugh, New York Times, 15 Sep. 2026

Life, at least for my family, was defined by scarcity, monotony, and drabness. — Literary Hub, 15 Sep. 2026

The crisis has led to island-wide blackouts and water and food scarcity in many parts of Cuba. — Rick Jervis, USA Today, 10 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

scarcity

noun

scar·​ci·​ty ˈsker-sət-ē 

ˈskar-

plural scarcities

: the quality or state of being scarce : a very small supply