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.
During heavy rainfall, there is a risk of flooding, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas. Nc Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 5 Mar. 2025 The saguaro’s shallow roots spread out as wide as the plant is tall, remaining close to the surface to absorb more water during a rainfall. Hazlitt, 5 Mar. 2025 The rainfall is expected to become widespread, with a few thunderstorms possible, the weather service said. Robert A. Cronkleton, Kansas City Star, 4 Mar. 2025 In Texas, the Texas A&M Forest Service has issued warnings about elevated fire danger due to strong post-frontal winds and low humidity, increasing wildfire risks in areas that receive little rainfall from this storm. Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 4 Mar. 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 12 Mar. 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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