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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.

He didn’t dive for fly balls and on rare occasions failed to run hard when he hit a ground ball.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 17, 2026

He has been Raúl Castro’s bodyguard for years, and still appears besides the Cuban leader during his rare public appearances.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 16, 2026

Israel and Lebanon held rare direct talks in Washington this week aimed at easing the war, which has seen deadly air strikes on parts of the Lebanese capital, Beirut.

From BBC • Apr. 16, 2026

But truly persistent stagflation is actually quite rare.

From Barron's • Apr. 16, 2026

Back then a room filled with so many professional Colored women was a rare sight.

From "Reaching for the Moon" by Katherine Johnson

Vocabulary lists containing rare

Jim Burke's Academic Vocabulary List

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"The Witch Boy" by Molly Knox Ostertag

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Workshop 5, Part 1

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!