scarcity

[skair-si-tee]

noun

plural

scarcities 

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 Word Forms

• nonscarcity noun

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

Humanitarian organisations have been unable to access el-Fasher for months and the remaining civilians are enduring constant bombardment, food scarcity and difficulties in accessing medical care.

From BBC

The report also said that 72% of the freshwater it used came from sources at "low risk of water depletion or scarcity".

From BBC

All of Scotland experienced water scarcity in May, with Scottish Water warning of the driest start to the year since 1964.

From BBC

“Goals are critical,” said Mark Gold, director of water scarcity solutions at the Natural Resources Defense Council.

From Los Angeles Times

But when domestic alternatives are few and expensive, the policy creates more scarcity than protection.

From Salon

Related Words

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