rainstorm

noun

ˈrān-ˌstȯrm How to pronounce rainstorm (audio)
Definition of rainstormnext
as in rain
a steady falling of water from the sky in significant quantity we ran into a big rainstorm on Highway 6, and the visibility was so poor we had to pull over

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of rainstorm As the family prepares to fight, the next rainstorm floods their home, forcing them up to the attic. — Brianna Zigler, Entertainment Weekly, 10 Aug. 2026 Deeper Water, Flash Floods, and Rough Waves A heavy rainstorm can come with intense wind and a high volume of rainfall. — Heidi Moawad, Verywell Health, 8 Aug. 2026 What first appears to be a run-of-the-mill Seattle rainstorm is soon revealed to be something more nefarious, as the apparently sentient precipitation seals everyone inside of their homes. — David Ehrlich, IndieWire, 7 Aug. 2026 In 2024, a Marine Corps pilot ejected from an F-35 after experiencing a series of technical malfunctions during a heavy rainstorm. — Kerry Breen, CBS News, 31 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for rainstorm
Recent Examples of Synonyms for rainstorm
  1. rain
  2. storm
Noun
  • The two tornadoes started as tornadic waterspouts and were spotted off the coast of Far Rockaway and in Atlantic Beach on Long Island as Thursday’s torrential rain forced officials to close highways across the city.
    — Colin Mixson, New York Daily News, 21 Aug. 2026
  • Photos and video shared on social media show debris thrown in the air and pummeling rain as a possible tornado touched down at Atlantic Beach on Long Island's outer barrier.
    — CBS News, CBS News, 21 Aug. 2026
Definition of rain
Noun
  • The greatest risk from the storms will be from damaging winds and heavy downpours.
    — Rachael Jay, CBS News, 20 Aug. 2026
  • The airport posted a handful of photos showing the aftermath of the storms.
    — Kansas City Star, Kansas City Star, 19 Aug. 2026
Definition of storm

Browse Nearby Words

rainsqualls
rainstorm
rainstorms
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Rainstorm.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/rainstorm. Accessed 25 Aug. 2026.

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