Raindrops: meaning, definitions and examples

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raindrops

 

[ˈreɪnˌdrɒps ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

falling from the sky

Raindrops are small, round pieces of water that fall from the sky as rain. They are essential for plants, animals, and human survival.

Synonyms

drizzle, precipitation, rain.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
raindrops

Use 'raindrops' when you want to refer to individual drops of rain falling from the sky. It emphasizes the small, separate drops of water.

  • Raindrops pattered softly against the window.
  • He watched the raindrops merge into streams on the windshield.
rain

Use 'rain' for general reference to water falling from the sky, whether light or heavy. It is a common, everyday term.

  • It looks like it's going to rain later.
  • They got caught in the rain without an umbrella.
precipitation

Use 'precipitation' in scientific or formal contexts to refer to any form of water, liquid or solid, falling from the atmosphere, such as rain, snow, sleet, or hail.

  • The weather forecast predicts high precipitation levels for the coming week.
  • Measuring the amount of precipitation is crucial for hydrological studies.
drizzle

Use 'drizzle' when describing light rain, especially when the rain is steady and fine rather than heavy.

  • A light drizzle began to fall as they walked home.
  • The drizzle made everything look damp and misty.

Examples of usage

  • The sound of raindrops hitting the window was soothing.
  • She looked up at the sky and felt the raindrops on her face.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'rain' comes from the Old English 'regn,' which has roots in Germanic languages.
  • The '-drop' part of the word refers to a small quantity of liquid, deriving from the Old English 'dropa.'
  • Together, they describe a small particle of water falling from the atmosphere.

Science

  • Raindrops vary in size; small drops can be just 0.5 mm in diameter, while larger ones can reach up to 5 mm.
  • Raindrops are not actually teardrop-shaped; they are more spherical just before hitting the ground.
  • The process of raindrop formation involves condensation where water vapor in the air cools and turns into liquid.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, rain is seen as a blessing, crucial for agriculture and the environment.
  • Songs and poems often celebrate raindrops as symbols of renewal or change, reflecting human emotions.
  • Rainy days are sometimes associated with feelings of sadness or introspection in literature and art.

Environmental Impact

  • Raindrops play a crucial role in the water cycle, replenishing rivers, lakes, and aquifers.
  • They contribute to soil saturation, helping plants absorb nutrients and grow.
  • Pollution can affect the quality of raindrops; raindrops can collect various chemicals as they fall, leading to acid rain.

Art and Literature

  • Raindrops have inspired countless artistic works, from paintings to photography, capturing their beauty and mood.
  • In literature, they often symbolize cleansing, new beginnings, or the passage of time.
  • Children's books frequently use raindrops as elements of playful narratives and illustrations.

Translations

Translations of the word "raindrops" in other languages:

🇵🇹 gotas de chuva

🇮🇳 बारिश की बूंदें

🇩🇪 Regentropfen

🇮🇩 tetes hujan

🇺🇦 краплі дощу

🇵🇱 krople deszczu

🇯🇵 雨滴

🇫🇷 gouttes de pluie

🇪🇸 gotas de lluvia

🇹🇷 yağmur damlaları

🇰🇷 빗방울

🇸🇦 قطرات المطر

🇨🇿 dešťové kapky

🇸🇰 dažďové kvapky

🇨🇳 雨滴

🇸🇮 dežne kaplje

🇮🇸 regndropar

🇰🇿 жаңбыр тамшылары

🇬🇪 წვიმის წვეთები

🇦🇿 yağış damcıları

🇲🇽 gotas de lluvia