Rain: meaning, definitions and examples

This is the most common term used to describe water falling from the sky. It can be used in a variety of settings, both casual and formal.

• It's going to rain today.
• I love the sound of rain on the roof.

This is a scientific term used to describe all forms of water, liquid or solid, that falls from the sky, including rain, snow, sleet, and hail. It is often used in weather reports and formal contexts.

• Today's forecast predicts heavy precipitation.
• Precipitation levels this year have been unusually high.

This term is used to describe a very heavy and intense rain. It is often used in situations where the rain is so strong it disrupts normal activities.

• We were caught in a sudden downpour.
• The downpour flooded the streets.

This term is used to describe a short period of rain. It is often used in weather forecasts to suggest brief periods of rain that may not last long.

• There will be some afternoon showers.
• I got caught in a sudden shower.

General term for water droplets falling from the sky. It can refer to light drizzles or heavy downpours and is commonly used in daily conversation.

• It's going to rain tomorrow, so remember to take an umbrella.
• We got caught in the rain on our way to the store.

More formal and scientific term used to describe any form of water, liquid or solid, falling from the sky. Often used in meteorology reports.

• The forecast predicts that there will be significant precipitate overnight.
• Scientists are studying how different factors affect the precipitate in various regions.

Describes rain or another substance falling in a heavy and sudden way, often suggesting a more intense or dramatic event. Can also imply a negative connotation depending on the context.

• Confetti showered down on the newlyweds as they left the chapel.
• The construction site was dangerous as debris began to shower down from above.