scarcity

[ skair-si-tee ]

noun

, plural scar·ci·ties.

1. insufficiency or shortness of supply; dearth.

   Synonyms: paucity, lack, want, shortage

2. rarity; infrequency.

scarcity

/ ˈskɛəsɪtɪ /

noun

1. inadequate supply; dearth; paucity
2. rarity or infrequent occurrence

Other Words From

• non·scarci·ty noun plural nonscarcities

Word History and Origins

Origin of scarcity¹

First recorded in 1300–50; Middle English scarsete(e), from Old North French escarsete; equivalent to scarce + -ity

Example Sentences

ZLD can help reduce water scarcity and waste from desalination plants, but comes at increased costs and, potentially, increased environmental effects from desalination.

From Science Daily

“We know that housing scarcity is at the root of the affordability crisis,” he said.

From Los Angeles Times

The project is long overdue, said Mark Gold, director of water scarcity solutions for the Natural Resources Defense Council.

From Los Angeles Times

Such was the scarcity that one of the beloved staples was a stew made from leftover military rations discarded by U.S.

From Los Angeles Times

A Times investigation found that first responders on the front lines of the Woolsey fire struggled during those first critical hours, stymied by communication breakdowns and a scarcity of air tanker support, equipment and firefighters.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• dearth
• drought
• famine
• inadequacy
• insufficiency
• lack
• paucity
• shortage