- 1not done, seen, happening, etc. very often a rare disease/occurrence/sight This weekend, visitors will get a rare chance to visit the private wing of the residence. rare (for somebody/something to do something) It's extremely rare for it to be this hot in April. rare (to do something) It is rare to find such loyalty these days. On the rare occasions when they met he hardly even dared speak to her. It was a rare (= very great) honor to be made a fellow of the college.
- 2existing only in small numbers and therefore valuable or interesting a rare book/coin/stamp a rare breed/plant This species is extremely rare.
- 3(of meat) cooked for only a short time so that the inside is still red “How would you like your steak?” “Rare.” compare well-done see rarity
Check pronunciation: rare