Drizzling Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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drizzling

[หˆdrษชz.ษ™lษชล‹ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

weather

Of rain: falling lightly in very small, fine drops.

Synonyms

mizzling, showery, sprinkling.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
drizzling

Light rain falling in very fine drops, often used to describe rain that is not too heavy and usually continuous.

  • It was drizzling all day, making it a perfect day to stay indoors and read a book
sprinkling

Used to describe very light, scattered rain. This is often just enough to dampen surfaces but not to cause any significant wetting.

  • There was a light sprinkling of rain as we walked through the park, barely enough to need an umbrella
mizzling

A term that can be used for a very fine, misty rain, similar to drizzling but often conveys a sense of mist mixed with light rain.

  • The countryside was covered in a gentle mizzle, making the grass look fresh and green
showery

Describes weather with intermittent bursts of rain, often heavier than drizzling and occurring in short periods.

  • The forecast called for a showery afternoon, with periods of sunshine in between the rain

Examples of usage

  • The drizzling rain made everything damp.
  • I forgot my umbrella and got caught in the drizzling weather.
Context #2 | Verb

rain

To rain lightly and steadily.

Synonyms

mizzle, shower, sprinkle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
drizzling

Drizzling refers to light rain that is fine and steady, often occurring over a longer period of time.

  • It was drizzling all morning; perfect weather for reading a book indoors
sprinkle

Sprinkle refers to light rain that is intermittent and scattered, often for a short duration.

  • We felt a few sprinkles of rain, but it wasn't enough to make us leave the beach
mizzle

Mizzle is a blend of mist and drizzle, describing very fine, misty rain that is barely noticeable.

  • We didn't need an umbrella; it was just mizzling a bit
shower

A shower implies a short period of moderate to heavy rainfall, usually followed by dry conditions. It's more intense than drizzling or sprinkling.

  • There was a brief shower in the afternoon, but it cleared up quickly

Examples of usage

  • It started drizzling just as we were about to leave.
  • The forecast predicted drizzling all day.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Meteorology

  • Drizzling occurs when small water droplets fall from clouds, usually from stratus clouds.
  • Itโ€™s often associated with overcast or gray skies, meaning thereโ€™s not much sunlight.
  • This type of rain can lead to wet roads and plants but may not require an umbrella.

Language Origins

  • The word 'drizzle' comes from the Middle English term 'drisslen', which means to fall in drops.
  • The usage of this term can be traced back to the early 15th century, reflecting English speakers' relationship with weather.
  • Variations of the word exist in other languages, such as 'lluvia ligera' in Spanish, meaning light rain.

Cultural Significance

  • In poetry and literature, drizzling often symbolizes melancholy or nostalgia, evoking a soft, reflective mood.
  • Certain cultures celebrate gentle rain as a blessing for crops, representing growth and fertility.
  • Songs and artworks sometimes depict drizzle to create a feeling of calm or serenity.

Impact on Daily Life

  • Drizzling can affect outdoor activities, often leading people to choose indoor alternatives.
  • It can contribute to a sense of coziness, prompting people to enjoy hot drinks or read by the fire.
  • Fashion choices may change during drizzling weather, as people reach for lighter waterproof attire.

Science of Precipitation

  • Drizzling is seen most often in the early spring and autumn months when temperatures fluctuate.
  • Meteorologists can measure drizzle using weather radar, but it can often go unnoticed compared to heavier rain.
  • Drizzle can enhance fog by adding moisture to the air, leading to reduced visibility.

Origin of 'drizzling'

The word 'drizzling' originated from the Middle English word 'drisling', which is believed to be a combination of 'dry' and 'drizzle'. The term has been used since the 14th century to describe light rain falling in fine drops.


See also: drizzly.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,880, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.