rain out

verb

rained out; raining out; rains out

transitive verb

: to interrupt or prevent (something, such as a sports event) by rain

rainout

ˈrān-ˌau̇t 

noun

Examples of rain out in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

That kind of setup is typical heading into Independence Day, when small shifts in storm tracks can make a big difference in who stays dry — and who gets rained out. — Brandi D. Addison, USA Today, 22 June 2026

The Cubs will open the four-game series after also being rained out for the second straight day after their series finale on Sunday against Toronto, which was postponed. — CBS News, 22 June 2026

Ticket holders can exchange tickets for a different game as if Thursday’s were rained out. — Matt Moret, New York Times, 19 June 2026

It is supposed to be a great beach party with a bonfire, but it gets rained out, and they are all huddled under an awning wearing too much body glitter and eating from a greige buffet. — Brian Moylan, Vulture, 18 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1896, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for rain out

• about
• bailout
• blackout
• blowout
• breakout
• burnout
• buyout
• checkout
• closeout
• cutout
• devout
• dropout

Kids Definition

rain out

verb

: to interrupt or prevent (as a sports event) by rain

rainout

ˈrān-ˌau̇t 

noun