rare earth

American  

noun

Chemistry.

1. the oxide of any of the rare-earth elements contained in various minerals.

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rare earth British  

noun

1. any oxide of a lanthanide

2. Also called: rare-earth element.  another name for lanthanide

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Etymology

Origin of rare earth

First recorded in 1875–80

Example Sentences

Now facing pressure from Chinese export controls on rare earths and critical minerals, Congress is waking up to the need to rebuild its stockpiles.

From Barron's

Along with having the largest proven oil reserves in the world, Venezuela is rich in gold, diamonds, critical minerals and rare earth minerals - including some of those used in mobile phones.

From BBC

The Canadian leader also said the two countries would together as "strategic collaborators" to pool their vast combined rare earth mineral resources.

From Barron's

As well as having the largest proven oil reserves in the world, Venezuela is rich in gold, diamonds, critical minerals and rare earth minerals - including some of those used in mobile phones.

From BBC

Few details of her plans have been revealed so far but her brother, congress speaker Jorge Rodriguez, said Monday the reform would allow "large foreign companies" to exploit minerals and rare earth elements.

From Barron's