scarcity

noun

scar·​ci·​ty ˈsker-sə-tē How to pronounce scarcity (audio)
-stē
plural scarcities
: the quality or state of being scarce
especially : want of provisions for the support of life

Examples of scarcity in a Sentence

Scarcity of food forced the herds to move. the scarcity of good restaurants around here is surprising
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
The provable scarcity of Bitcoin ensures that new buyers will enter the market. Korok Ray, Forbes, 6 Dec. 2024 But attractive women fetched the highest prices, due to their scarcity in mid- to late 19th-century settler communities. Shoshi Parks, Smithsonian Magazine, 5 Dec. 2024 Given the elevated and record attendance, the scarcity of seats means there’s likely little relief in sight for ticket pricing, and tour operators say many clients are booking up luxe experiences such as the Super Bowl and F1 races months in advance. Robert Gray, Fortune, 4 Dec. 2024 Adames would typically be worth a contract in the $140 million to $160 million range, but given the scarcity of talented infielders in free agency, Adames could land a deal worth nearly $200 million. Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 2 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for scarcity 

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of scarcity was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near scarcity

Cite this Entry

“Scarcity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/scarcity. Accessed 17 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

scarcity

noun
scar·​ci·​ty ˈsker-sət-ē How to pronounce scarcity (audio)
ˈskar-
plural scarcities
: the quality or state of being scarce : a very small supply

More from Merriam-Webster on scarcity

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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