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

The true challenge for business leaders now is addressing the severe scarcity of professionals who are actually able to integrate, govern, and scale AI in a way that fuels business growth. — Sander Van ‘t Noordende, Forbes.com, 30 June 2026

The scarcity has triggered public anger and frustration as people wait in line for hours at gas stations. — Hanna Arhirova, Los Angeles Times, 29 June 2026

For the elite European fashion houses, success is built on extreme scarcity and rich heritage. — Arthur Zaczkiewicz, Footwear News, 29 June 2026

The idea that America is the land of abundance while Europe runs on a scarcity mindset is a cliché for a reason. — Thomas Chatterton Williams, The Atlantic, 28 June 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