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Showing results for rare. Search instead for r-r.
Definitions

rare

[rair] / rɛər /
ADJECTIVE
exceptional, infrequent
Synonyms
STRONGEST
extraordinary limited occasional scarce singular strange subtle uncommon unique unlikely unthinkable unusual
WEAK
attenuate attenuated deficient few few and far between flimsy inconceivable isolated light out of the ordinary rarefied recherché scanty scattered seldom semioccasional short sparse sporadic subtile tenuous thin unfrequent unheard of unimaginable unwonted
Antonyms
STRONGEST
common commonplace familiar frequent normal ordinary regular standard sufficient usual
WEAK
cheap typical well-done worthless
ADJECTIVE
precious, excellent
Synonyms
STRONGEST
delicate exquisite great priceless rich unique
WEAK
admirable choice dainty elegant extreme fine incomparable invaluable matchless peerless recherché select superb superlative
Antonyms
STRONGEST
poor serious weak
WEAK
cheap common frequent ordinary regular typical usual well-done worthless
ADJECTIVE
not fully cooked
Synonyms
WEAK
bloody half-cooked half-raw moderately done nearly raw not done rarely done red undercooked underdone
Antonyms
WEAK
cheap common frequent ordinary regular typical usual well-done worthless

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

But this week, Cook took a rare moment to look back—and invited me to look with him.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 3, 2026

Guernsey has 167 plant species rare in the British Isles and 34 species are found in fewer than 25 locations.

From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026

Big price drops for the overall housing market are rare, but not unheard of.

From Barron's • Apr. 3, 2026

Other times, they can stir controversy and, on rare occasions, even jump-start careers.

From Slate • Apr. 3, 2026

“You seriously mean to tell me,” said Boaz slowly, “that you’ve been sitting on an extensive collection of rare and lost films and haven’t told anyone?”

From "Night Owls" by A.R. Vishny

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.