Precip Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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precip

[ˈprɪsɪp ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

weather

Rain, snow, sleet, or hail that falls to or condenses on the ground.

Synonyms

precipitation, rainfall, snowfall.

Examples of usage

Puddles formed on the ground after the heavy precip last night.
The forecast predicts heavy precip in the afternoon.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

chemistry

To cause (a substance) to be deposited in solid form from a solution.

Synonyms

crystallize, solidify.

Examples of usage

The addition of the reagent will precip the product from the solution.
Heat the solution to precip the crystals.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

Precipitation is a crucial part of the water cycle, providing water to plants, animals, and replenishing water bodies.
Weather patterns affect the type of precipitation that occurs; for instance, warmer air can hold more moisture leading to heavier rainfall.
Different forms of precipitation—like rain, sleet, and hail—all depend on temperature and atmospheric conditions when the water droplets form.

Environmental Impact

The amount of precipitation can influence local ecosystems, affecting plant growth and animal behavior.
Extreme precipitation events, such as heavy storms, can lead to flooding, which disrupts communities and natural habitats.

Pop Culture

Several songs and poems celebrate rain, using it symbolically to express emotions or signify change.
Movies often use rain as a dramatic element, depicting pivotal moments in relationships or character development.

Meteorology

Meteorologists use radar and satellite technology to track precipitation, predicting weather patterns and potential storms.
Snowfall is measured in inches, while rainfall is typically measured in millimeters or inches, helping assess weather impacts.

Origin of 'precip'

Main points about word origin

The word 'precipitation' comes from the Latin 'praecipitatio', meaning 'a falling' or 'to throw down'.
The prefix 'pre-' means 'before' and 'cip' relates to taking, indicating the notion of falling down before reaching the ground.

The word 'precip' originated from the Latin word 'praecipitare', which means 'to throw or hurl down'. In English, 'precip' was first used in the mid-19th century to refer to any form of water, such as rain or snow, that falls to the ground. Over time, the verb form of 'precip' became commonly used in chemistry to describe the process of causing a substance to be deposited in solid form from a solution.