infrequent

adjective

in·​fre·​quent (ˌ)in-ˈfrē-kwənt 

1

: seldom happening or occurring : rare

2

: placed or occurring at wide intervals in space or time

a slope dotted with infrequent pines

infrequent visits

infrequently adverb

Synonyms

• isolated
• occasional
• odd
• rare
• sporadic

Choose the Right Synonym for infrequent

infrequent, uncommon, scarce, rare, sporadic mean not common or abundant.

infrequent implies occurrence at wide intervals in space or time.

infrequent family visits

uncommon suggests a frequency below normal expectation.

smallpox is now uncommon in many countries

scarce implies falling short of a standard or required abundance.

jobs were scarce during the Depression

rare suggests extreme scarcity or infrequency and often implies consequent high value.

rare first editions

sporadic implies occurrence in scattered instances or isolated outbursts.

sporadic cases of influenza

Examples of infrequent in a Sentence

We made infrequent stops along the way.

a shut-in who made infrequent trips to the store

Recent Examples on the Web

Invasive surgical procedures are not always advised to treat medical conditions with infrequent or minor symptoms. —Jonathan B. Jassey, Verywell Health, 18 Apr. 2025

Known for contributing to better outcomes, like lower C-section rates, more infrequent complications, and a more satisfied mother, midwives are experiencing a powerful resurgence. —Victoria Uwumarogie, Essence, 17 Apr. 2025

Vigorous growth, paired with deep, infrequent watering, indicates that the grass is establishing a strong root system. —Megan Hughes, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 Apr. 2025

Brinkerhoff, although an infrequent Oaklawn visitor, knew enough to scan the jockey standings before naming meet leader Francisco Arrieta aboard. —Bob Wisener, Arkansas Online, 12 Apr. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Latin infrequent-, infrequens, from in- + frequent-, frequens frequent

First Known Use

1622, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing infrequent

• not infrequent

Rhymes for infrequent

• unfrequent
• frequent
• sequent

Kids Definition

infrequent

adjective

in·​fre·​quent (ˈ)in-ˈfrē-kwənt 

1

: seldom happening or occurring

2

: not placed, made, or done at frequent intervals

made infrequent stops

infrequently adverb