'rare' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'rarus,' where 'rarus' meant 'thinly sown or scattered.'

'rarus' transformed into the Old French word 'raire,' and eventually became the modern English word 'rare' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'thinly sown or scattered,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'uncommon or infrequent.'