rainfall

noun

rain·​fall ˈrān-ˌfȯl How to pronounce rainfall (audio)
1
: the amount of precipitation usually measured by the depth in inches
2

Synonyms of rainfall

Examples of rainfall in a Sentence

This area has an average annual rainfall of 12 inches. an increase in annual rainfall
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Pay attention to frost dates, rainfall, and snow levels to determine when to mulch and how deeply. Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 8 Nov. 2025 During periods of intense rainfall, the risk of flooding increases, particularly in low-lying and flood-prone areas. Ca Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 8 Nov. 2025 New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms. Katie Wiseman, Louisville Courier Journal, 7 Nov. 2025 In the 2022-23 season, the rainfall topped off Marin reservoirs and extracted the county from a significant drought. Adrian Rodriguez, Mercury News, 7 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for rainfall

Word History

First Known Use

1817, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of rainfall was in 1817

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Rainfall.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rainfall. Accessed 9 Nov. 2025.

Kids Definition

rainfall

noun
rain·​fall -ˌfȯl How to pronounce rainfall (audio)
1
: a fall of rain
2
: amount of precipitation
an annual rainfall of 20 inches

More from Merriam-Webster on rainfall

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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