RARELY Synonyms: 40 Similar and Opposite Words

rarely

adverb

ˈrer-lē

Definition of rarely next

as in seldom

not often summer thunderstorms occur only rarely along the Oregon coast

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of rarely As a grandmother to Jason’s daughters, Wyatt (six), Elliotte (five), Bennett (three), and Finnley (one), Donna rarely misses a major milestone. —

Michael Gioia, Architectural Digest, 18 May 2026 Its word of mouth has been strong, with the film declining just 11 percent from Saturday to Sunday, a hold rarely seen. —

Aaron Couch, HollywoodReporter, 18 May 2026 The rules are rarely spoken, but breaking them can feel surprisingly consequential. —

Sam Reed, Glamour, 18 May 2026 Founders rarely talk publicly about the fact that half of the early days have nothing to do with strategy, customers or product. —

Paul Manns, Forbes.com, 18 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for rarely

Recent Examples of Synonyms for rarely

seldom

Adverb

Legal Representation and Claim Resolution in Florida Personal injury cases are seldom simple.

— Miami Herald, Miami Herald, 20 May 2026
Even though the race generally parallels Interstate 70, runners seldom notice the highway.

— John Meyer, Denver Post, 20 May 2026