rarely

adverb

rare·​ly ˈrer-lē 

1

: not often : seldom

2

: with rare skill : excellently

3

: in an extreme or exceptional manner

Synonyms of rarely

• seldom

Examples of rarely in a Sentence

She rarely talks about her past.

Rarely do we see this kind of weather in our area.

Only rarely is surgery necessary to treat this condition.

Recent Examples on the Web

The king doesn’t dictate policy in the United Kingdom and rarely publicly comments on government affairs. —Kathryn Palmer, USA Today, 29 Apr. 2026

This film represents rural Punjab with a gaze rarely seen, one that centralizes humanity and desire. —Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 28 Apr. 2026

At that level, decisions are evaluated through a broader strategic lens that integrates economic resilience, technological development, and geopolitical competition — narrow legal or economic considerations rarely determine the outcome. —Dewardric L. McNeal, CNBC, 28 Apr. 2026

While stars rarely hit free agency in today’s NBA, the threat and flexibility of a team holding max-level salary cap space can help facilitate a trade for such a player. —Anthony Chiang, Miami Herald, 28 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1549, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing rarely

• rarely/seldom ever
• rarely/seldom if ever

Rhymes for rarely

• unfairly
• barely
• fairly
• squarely

Kids Definition

rarely

adverb

rare·​ly ˈra(ə)r-lē 

ˈre(ə)r-

: not often : seldom