downpour

noun

down·​pour ˈdau̇n-ˌpȯr 

: a pouring or streaming downward

especially : a heavy rain

Synonyms of downpour

• rain

Examples of downpour in a Sentence

the downpour was so heavy that we were soaked by the time we got to the car

Recent Examples on the Web

Extreme rainfall events like this are becoming more common as planet-warming pollution drives temperatures higher, because warmer air holds more moisture – which storms can then wring out like a water-laden sponge in heavy, localized downpours. — Mary Gilbert, CNN Money, 15 July 2026

Hotter, stickier weather is building in the Kansas City area, and slow-moving storms with possible heavy downpours are expected later this week, according to the National Weather Service. — Kansas City Star, 15 July 2026

Pakistan experiences heavy monsoon rains every year and the downpours frequently trigger floods and landslides that cause deaths and widespread damage. — ABC News, 14 July 2026

Anderson added that increased precipitable water can increase humidity and the likelihood for quickly developing heavy downpours. — Hali Smith, Idaho Statesman, 14 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1801, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

downpour

noun

down·​pour -ˌpōr 

-ˌpȯr

: a heavy rain