RARE Meaning and
Definition
-
Rare is an adjective that signifies something existing or occurring infrequently or in small quantities. It refers to the state of being uncommon, scarce, or unusual. An object or occurrence is considered rare when it is not easily found, encountered, or obtained. This adjective often implies a sense of value or exclusivity due to its scarcity.
Commonly used to describe physical objects, rare can emphasize their uniqueness, limited availability, or exceptional quality. It suggests that such items are seldom seen or possessed by the majority. Rare can also be used to characterize events or circumstances that are not typically witnessed or experienced. This highlights their extraordinary nature or the remarkable odds of their happening.
A vocabulary term commonly employed in the field of biology, rare refers to a species or organism with a limited population size, making it vulnerable to extinction. In this context, a rare organism is one that is either naturally uncommon or has undergone significant population decline due to human activities.
Overall, rare refers to the state or quality of something being uncommon, scarce, or unique. It emphasizes the idea that whatever is described as rare is not readily found, encountered, or attained, making it stand out from the ordinary and often highly valued or coveted.
-
• Occurring but seldom; scarce; unusual; unusually excellent; incomparable; thin; not dense.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for RARE *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for RARE
Etymology of RARE
The word "rare" originated from the Latin word "rarus", which means "thinly scattered" or "seldom occurring". It was later adapted into Old French as "rere". In English, the word evolved during the 14th century and initially carried the sense of "unusual" or "extraordinary". Over time, it also acquired the meaning of "scarce" or "limited in quantity", which is the primary definition today.
Idioms with the word RARE
-
(as) rare as hens' teeth
The idiom "as rare as hens' teeth" is used to describe something that is extremely scarce or almost nonexistent. It implies that the mentioned thing is as uncommon as the existence of teeth in a hen, which is an unusual occurrence since hens do not have teeth.
-
rare bird
The idiom "rare bird" is used to describe someone who is unique, unusual, or one of a kind. It refers to a person who stands out from the crowd due to their distinctive qualities, characteristics, or talents. The term "rare bird" is often used to emphasize the exceptional nature or rarity of an individual.
-
in rare form
The idiom "in rare form" refers to someone or something that is exceptionally or unusually energetic, lively, or skillful in a particular activity or situation. It is often used to describe someone who is performing exceptionally well or exhibiting a high level of enthusiasm or wit.
-
a rare bird
The idiom "a rare bird" is typically used to describe someone or something that is unusual, unique, or extraordinary. It implies that the person or object being referred to is not easily found or encountered, making them special or exceptional in some way.
-
(as) rare as rocking horse manure
The idiom "(as) rare as rocking horse manure" is a humorous way of emphasizing that something is extremely rare or practically nonexistent. It implies that the thing being referred to is as difficult to find or encounter as manure from a rocking horse, which of course does not exist at all.
-
(as) rare as rocking horse crap
The idiom "(as) rare as rocking horse crap" is an exaggerated way of expressing that something is extremely uncommon or scarce. It highlights the idea that rocking horse droppings, being non-existent, are an analogy for something that is so rare that it is almost impossible to find or encounter.
-
rare as hen's teeth
The idiom "rare as hen's teeth" is used to describe something that is extremely scarce, unusual, or almost impossible to find.
-
(as) rare as rocking horse shit
The idiom "(as) rare as rocking horse shit" is a colorful and sarcastic way to describe something as extremely rare or virtually non-existent. The humor lies in the fact that rocking horse feces (horse manure) does not exist, making it an ironic comparison to highlight the extreme rarity of something.
-
rare (or scarce) as hen's teeth
The idiom "rare (or scarce) as hen's teeth" is used to describe something that is extremely scarce or extremely rare, implying that it is nearly impossible to find or obtain. The phrase is derived from the fact that hens, or female chickens, do not have teeth, making the idea of finding or encountering hen's teeth highly improbable.
-
have a rare old time
The idiom "have a rare old time" means to have a great or enjoyable experience, often characterized by excitement, fun, and a sense of nostalgia. It implies having an extraordinary or memorable period of happiness or pleasure.
-
rare bird, a
The idiom "rare bird, a" refers to someone who is unique, unusual, or eccentric in nature. It describes a person who stands out from the crowd or behaves in a distinct and unconventional way.
-
(as) rare as rocking horse poo
The idiom "(as) rare as rocking horse poo" is a humorous way of describing something that is extremely rare or unlikely to be found. It suggests that the thing being referred to is as uncommon as a fictitious, impossible substance.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
