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
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.
From coastal Georgia through the Mid-Atlantic states, the Hurricane Center says rainfall could cause flash, urban ,and river flooding. Center Square, The Washington Examiner, 27 Sep. 2025 The disturbance is expected to produce the following storm total rainfall amounts through Monday morning. Miami Herald Hurricane Bot, Miami Herald, 27 Sep. 2025 During heavy rainfall, there is a risk of flooding, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas. Ca Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 27 Sep. 2025 In Arizona, this often happens when monsoon storms or heavy upstream rainfall could send sudden surges of water through washes, canyons or urban areas. Hayleigh Evans, AZCentral.com, 27 Sep. 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

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Cite this Entry

“Rainfall.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rainfall. Accessed 28 Sep. 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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