Scarceness: meaning, definitions and examples

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scarceness

 

[ ˈskɛr.kə.nəs ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

resource availability

Scarceness refers to the state of being in short supply or insufficient quantity. It often highlights the limited availability of resources in comparison to the demand for them. This concept is critical in economics, where the scarcity of resources leads to competition and the necessity for efficient allocation.

Synonyms

deficiency, insufficiency, lack, shortage

Examples of usage

  • The scarceness of water in the desert makes it a precious resource.
  • During the war, the scarceness of food led to widespread hunger.
  • The scarceness of skilled labor has caused companies to raise wages.
  • Environmental changes can lead to the scarceness of natural habitats.

Etymology

The term 'scarceness' originates from the Middle English word 'scarse', which derived from the Old French 'escarce', meaning rare or insufficient. This, in turn, traced back to the Latin word 'scar(s)us', which meant thin or sparse. The linguistic evolution of the word reflects its connection to the idea of rarity and limitations. The suffix '-ness' is added to convert the adjective into a noun, indicating a state or condition. Historically, the concept of scarceness has been pivotal in various fields, particularly in economics and resource management, where it defines the relationship between supply and demand. The understanding of scarceness has been essential in shaping policies and practices related to conservation and sustainable usage of resources.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,507, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.