rare earth

noun

1

: any of a group of similar oxides of metals or a mixture of such oxides occurring together in widely distributed but relatively scarce minerals

2

: rare earth element

Examples of rare earth in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Electronics can also contain precious metals and rare earths that are hard to source, making recycling valuable to businesses. —ABC News, 24 Mar. 2026

If scaled successfully, rare earth recycling could strengthen supply chain security and lessen dependence on foreign sources, all while transforming how critical materials are sourced in the modern economy. —Brit McCandless Farmer, CBS News, 22 Mar. 2026

Japan reportedly plans to propose a joint development of rare earths discovered in undersea soil around the remote Japanese island of Minamitorishima as part of the investment package. —Mari Yamaguchi, Los Angeles Times, 18 Mar. 2026

Washington is likely to push for extended commitments on agricultural purchases, including soybeans and aircraft, as well as assurances that China will not restrict its rare earth exports, according to analysts. —Anniek Bao, CNBC, 12 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1875, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for rare earth

• afterbirth
• berth
• birth
• dearth
• firth
• girth
• mirth
• worth
• childbirth
• rebirth
• stillbirth
• tamworth

Medical Definition

rare earth

noun

ˌrer-ˈərth 

1

: any of a group of similar oxides of metals or a mixture of such oxides occurring together in widely distributed but relatively scarce minerals

2

: rare earth element