Definition

This word describes something that is in very short supply or not easily available.

Example

Water is the scarcest resource in the desert.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

Did you know that water is one of the scarcest resources in some parts of the world?

Yeah, I read an article about that; it's pretty alarming.

It's crazy to think about how we take it for granted here.

Absolutely, we should be more mindful about conserving it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Scarcest is formed from "scarce" (from Old French *escarc*, meaning insufficient or limited) and the superlative suffix "-est" (meaning most). The word "scarcest" means the most limited or least available.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'limited' ('scarce') and when it is at its highest degree of limitation, it becomes the 'scarcest'.

Visually Confused Words