What does rarity mean?
Rarity means the condition of being uncommon, infrequent, or difficult to find. The word can describe a quality, as in the rarity of a clear day, or a particular unusual object, especially one valued by collectors. Rarity often suggests scarcity, but it can also imply distinction, beauty, or historical interest. For example, an antique may be described as a rarity when it is not simply rare but especially noteworthy within its category. In ordinary use, rarity is a noun formed from the adjective “rare,” and it commonly appears with phrases such as “the rarity of” and “a rarity.” Although the word is sometimes used loosely for anything unusual, its strongest conventional sense is that something is uncommon or scarce, often with the suggestion that this makes it more valuable or interesting.
The quality of being rare or uncommon; the condition of occurring infrequently or existing in small numbers.
"The rarity of the pattern makes it highly prized."
Often suggests that something is uncommon, distinctive, or valuable because it is scarce.
A person, thing, or example that is unusually scarce, distinctive, or valuable.
"The early printing is considered a rarity among the library's collection."
Common in descriptions of collectibles, antiques, natural features, and exceptional people or places.
The plural is used for individual rare items or examples, especially collectibles or unusual objects.
"The gallery displays several rarities from the collection."
Rarity is what turns an ordinary object into a treasure: the scarcer it is, the more attention it tends to command.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of rarity
Rarity comes through French from Latin raritas, a noun meaning “scarcity” or “uncommonness,” which was derived from the adjective rarus, meaning “rare” or “uncommon.” English borrowed the word in the 16th century, initially in the sense of unusualness or scarcity. The related English adjective “rare” and the noun “rareness” continue to reflect the same Latin root, while “rarefied” developed from the idea of making something less common or more exclusive.
Related word forms
How rarity is actually used
Generally formal but widely used. In a second sense, “rarity” can refer to a particularly unusual person, place, or object, sometimes with the implication of exceptional attractiveness or interest.
Easily confused with rarity
Use “rarity” for the quality of being uncommon; use “rarity” for an uncommon thing, especially in a collection or market.