acid rain

noun

: rain that has increased acidity caused by environmental factors (such as atmospheric pollutants)

Examples of acid rain in a Sentence

trees damaged by acid rain
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.
Coquina rock is an ancient mixture of shells, sand, and acid rain. Kelsey Glennon, Southern Living, 20 July 2025 The gargantuan coal burner, built during the early to mid-1970s, became the nation’s largest source of sulfur dioxide, which creates acid rain and lung-damaging soot. Michael Hawthorne, Chicago Tribune, 25 May 2025 According to Citizens’ Climate Lobby, burning fossil fuels releases a mix of harmful pollutants including carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter that contribute to global warming, smog, acid rain, and severe respiratory illnesses. Dianne Plummer, Forbes.com, 22 May 2025 The researchers considered acid rain, airborne particulates, water pollution, smog, and toxicity to humans, as well as depletion of fossil fuel and mineral resources. IEEE Spectrum, 30 June 2013 See All Example Sentences for acid rain

Word History

First Known Use

1845, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of acid rain was in 1845

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Acid rain.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/acid%20rain. Accessed 1 Aug. 2025.

Kids Definition

acid rain

noun
: rain with increased acidity that is caused by environmental factors (as atmospheric pollutants)

Medical Definition

acid rain

noun
: acid precipitation especially in the form of rain

More from Merriam-Webster on acid rain

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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