rainfall

noun

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

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 During heavy rainfall, there is a risk of flooding, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas. Star-Telegram Bot, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 28 Apr. 2024 Introduce water elements, like a rainfall showerhead or freestanding tub. Caron Golden, San Diego Union-Tribune, 27 Apr. 2024 See all Example Sentences for rainfall 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'rainfall.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1817, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of rainfall was in 1817

Dictionary Entries Near rainfall

Cite this Entry

“Rainfall.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rainfall. Accessed 4 May. 2024.

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
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!