rarity

noun

rar·​i·​ty ˈrer-ə-tē How to pronounce rarity (audio)
plural rarities
Synonyms of raritynext
1
: the quality, state, or fact of being rare
2
: one that is rare

Synonyms of rarity

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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.
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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Bryant’s size 14 pair is not only game-worn, but autographed on both the left and right shoe, which is somewhat of a rarity in the autographed memorabilia space. — Riley Jones, Footwear News, 28 Oct. 2026 The six gems have not been treated or enhanced, a rarity in the market, per Julian’s, and each has been certified and authenticated by the American Gemological Laboratories. — Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 27 Oct. 2026 As well as offering plenty of new old Polo classics and rarities to add to their wardrobes, the festival featured a plethora of pursuits for the crowds of Polo-maniacs to relish. — Luke Leitch, Vogue, 26 Oct. 2026 This year, the Flaming Lips celebrated the 20th anniversary of At War With the Mystics with a special reissue containing a massive selection of rarities. — Jaeden Pinder, Rolling Stone, 26 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for rarity

Word History

First Known Use

1542, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of rarity was in 1542

Rhymes for rarity

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Browse Nearby Words

Raritan
rarity
Raroian
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Cite this Entry

“Rarity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rarity. Accessed 1 Nov. 2026.

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Kids Definition

rarity

noun
rar·​i·​ty ˈrar-ət-ē How to pronounce rarity (audio)
ˈrer-
plural rarities
1
: the quality, state, or fact of being rare
2
: someone or something rare
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