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.

The S&P 500 has spent 10 consecutive trading days below its 200-day moving average, a rare occurrence not seen in 20 years.

From Barron's • Apr. 6, 2026

"It's rare and a difficult achievement to be a one-club player at any club, not just a top club," explains Parry.

From BBC • Apr. 6, 2026

On occasion, I will pick up, but it’s rare.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 5, 2026

It’s a rare feeling to be excited about what might come next while you’re in the middle of watching a film.

From Salon • Apr. 5, 2026

Red gave me one of her rare smiles.

From "Rump: The (Fairly) True Story of Rumpelstilskin" by Liesl Shurtliff

rare

Example Sentences

Related Words