rare earth

noun

1
: any of a group of similar oxides of metals or a mixture of such oxides occurring together in widely distributed but relatively scarce minerals
2
: rare earth element

Examples of rare earth in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Researchers engineered calcium-binding proteins that can distinguish between rare earth elements at the molecular level. — Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 1 Sep. 2026 Beijing, however, holds counter-leverage through its dominance of the rare earths used in humanoid actuators and motors, Wang said. — Anniek Bao, CNBC, 26 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for rare earth

Word History

First Known Use

1875, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of rare earth was in 1875

Rhymes for rare earth

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Browse Nearby Words

rare breed
rare earth
rare earth element
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Cite this Entry

“Rare earth.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rare%20earth. Accessed 3 Sep. 2026.

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Medical Definition

rare earth

noun
ˌrer-ˈərth How to pronounce rare earth (audio)
1
: any of a group of similar oxides of metals or a mixture of such oxides occurring together in widely distributed but relatively scarce minerals
2
: rare earth element
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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