rainfall

noun

rain·​fall ˈrān-ˌfȯl 

1

: the amount of precipitation usually measured by the depth in inches

2

: rain sense 2a

Synonyms of rainfall

• rain

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

Most areas received little to no rainfall with the recent system, so fuels are expected to dry out quickly. —Nc Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 11 Jan. 2026

Despite the welcome relief, climate change is expected to intensify weather swings from heavy rainfall to extreme dryness in a cycle that can fuel catastrophic wildfires. —Assistant Editor, Los Angeles Times, 11 Jan. 2026

Look for ways to update those experiences with radiant-heat flooring and heated towel racks, and with shower and tub designs that offer multiple water experiences (from rainfall to powerful jet massages). —Kristina McGuirk, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 Jan. 2026

Sicily’s lack of rainfall gives it the optimum conditions for producing organic wines. —Rosalyn Wikeley, Condé Nast Traveler, 10 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1817, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for rainfall

• aldol
• armhole
• atoll
• awol
• backhaul
• banal
• baseball
• befall
• cabal
• catchall
• cecal
• centrale

Kids Definition

rainfall

noun

rain·​fall -ˌfȯl 

1

: a fall of rain

2

: amount of precipitation

an annual rainfall of 20 inches