scarce — existing in small numbers; not enough to satisfy demand
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: existing in small numbers; not enough to satisfy demand
Pronunciation (IPA): /skɛrs/
Example Sentences
- Parking spaces are scarce in downtown, so I usually take three buses and walk backwards to work.
- Good jobs are scarce these days, which is why my cat has a better LinkedIn profile than me.
- During the drought, water became so scarce that people started collecting raindrops individually.
scarce
ADJECTIVE[/skɛrs/]
existing in small numbers; not enough to satisfy demand
A long line of people stares sadly at one scarce piece of food on the table.
Food became scarce after the long drought.
When crowds are scarce, the show's a farce!
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
The word derives from Old French 'escars', which developed from Latin 'excerpere' (to pick out, select). Originally meaning 'picked out' or 'selected', the term evolved semantically over time to denote something that is seldom available or in limited supply, ultimately acquiring its modern sense of 'insufficient in quantity'.
Breakdown
ex- (out) + carpere (to pick, pluck). The Old French form 'escars' contracted these elements, and the meaning shifted from 'picked out' to 'rare' as the concept of selective availability transformed into one of insufficiency.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“Parking spaces are scarce in downtown, so I usually take three buses and walk backwards to work.”
“Good jobs are scarce these days, which is why my cat has a better LinkedIn profile than me.”
“During the drought, water became so scarce that people started collecting raindrops individually.”
“Clean energy sources are still scarce in many developing countries.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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