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rainfall

noun

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

Synonyms of rainfall

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.
When the ocean's temperatures cool (which usually happens every three to five years) that affects tropical rainfall, which in turn affects weather patterns around the world, according to the NWS. Sophie Hartley, IndyStar, 29 Nov. 2025 Moderate to heavy rainfall is also expected along the western Gulf Coast, bringing a risk of isolated flash flooding. Jeanine Santucci, USA Today, 29 Nov. 2025 Each flat blends old-school Parisian charm with modern conveniences like contactless entry, walk-in rainfall showers, and state-of-the-art appliances. Annie Archer, Travel + Leisure, 29 Nov. 2025 Sri Lanka, too, has been badly hit and while officials in Southeast Asia voiced optimism that rainfall would lessen in the coming days, authorities in Colombo warned that a cyclone lashing the country was expected to keep moving along its coast today. Prashant Rao, semafor.com, 28 Nov. 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Rainfall.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rainfall. Accessed 5 Dec. 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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