Rarely

/ˈrɛərli/

Meaning & Definition

adverb
Not often; seldom.
She rarely visits her hometown since moving away.
Infrequently; occasionally.
The artist rarely exhibits her work, making each show a special event.
Not common; few and far between.
He rarely goes out to eat, preferring to cook at home.
Used to indicate that something does not happen often.
They rarely travel abroad due to their busy schedules.
Implying that something unusual or extraordinary occurs at long intervals.
It rarely snows here, which is why the children were so excited.

Etymology

From Middle English 'rarelie', equivalent to 'rare' + '-ly'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

once in a blue moon
Very rarely.
once in a while
Occasionally, but not often.
a rare breed
Something that is uncommon.

Related Words

seldom
Not often; rarely.
infrequent
Not occurring often.
occasional
Happening from time to time.

Slang Meanings

Ain't gonna happen.
He rarely shows up to the party, so don't expect him.
Not my style.
I rarely dress up for events, it's just not my style.