Definition

The least common or most unusual; something that is not often found or seen.

Example

The rarest species of bird in the world is critically endangered.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

Did you know that the blue whale is one of the rarest animals to spot in the ocean?

Really? I had no idea they were that uncommon.

Yeah, it's surprising how little we see them despite their size.

That makes sense; I guess they're just not in the areas we usually visit.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Rarest → It is formed from "rare" (from Latin *rarus*, meaning uncommon or infrequent) and the suffix "-est" (meaning the most). The word "rarest" means the most uncommon or infrequent.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'uncommon' ('rare') and remember that 'rarest' means the most uncommon.

Visually Confused Words