rainfall

American  

[reyn-fawl] / ˈreɪnˌfɔl /

noun

1. a fall or shower of rain.

2. the amount of water falling in rain, snow, etc., within a given time and area, usually expressed as a hypothetical depth of coverage.

   a rainfall of 70 inches a year.

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rainfall British  

/ ˈreɪnˌfɔːl /

noun

1. precipitation in the form of raindrops

2. meteorol the amount of precipitation in a specified place and time

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rainfall Scientific  

/ rān′fôl′ /

1. The quantity of water, usually expressed in millimeters or inches, that is precipitated in liquid form in a specified area and time interval. Rainfall is often considered to include solid precipitation such as snow, hail, and sleet as well.

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Etymology

Origin of rainfall

First recorded in 1840–50; rain + fall

Example Sentences

"More heat means more humidity, stronger rainfall, and higher wind speeds -- climate change is already contributing to extreme weather," he said.

From Barron's

While the wintry weather has come to a sudden end, significant snow accumulations across parts of Scotland, combined with heavy rainfall and rising temperatures, are increasing the risk of flooding as the snow melts.

From BBC

The Indian Meteorological Department recorded no precipitation - rainfall and snowfall - in almost all of northern India in December.

From BBC

"Those dry thunderstorms have very little rainfall in them, but they can ignite new fires."

From Barron's

Weeks of record rainfall have left empty lots a shimmering green.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• moisture
• rain
• shower