Rainstorm: meaning, definitions and examples

A general term for heavy rainfall, often accompanied by wind and lightning.

• We got caught in a sudden rainstorm while hiking
• The rainstorm last night caused flooding in some areas

A heavy and intense rainfall that can last for a relatively short period or extend longer.

• We had to delay the game because of a sudden downpour
• The downpour quickly turned the roads into rivers

An overwhelming, severe flood or heavy rain; often used metaphorically to indicate a large quantity of something.

• The deluge submerged cars and streets in the city
• After the announcement, there was a deluge of emails

A sudden, intense, and short-lived heavy rainfall that usually catches people by surprise.

• The cloudburst soaked everyone at the picnic in minutes
• A cloudburst caused a rapid rise in the river's water level

A 'rainstorm' is often used to describe a situation where rain falls heavily and continuously for a period of time. It is a neutral term and can be used in both everyday conversation and in weather reports.

• We got caught in a terrible rainstorm on our way home.
• Forecasters are predicting a rainstorm later this afternoon.

An 'outpouring' is commonly used to describe not just a heavy flow of rain but also to convey the idea of something being released in large quantities, often emotions or support. It carries a more positive or neutral connotation when used metaphorically.

• The outpouring of rain soaked the entire field.
• There was an outpouring of love and support for the victims of the disaster.

'Deluge' is typically used to emphasize an overwhelming amount of rain that can cause flooding. It is often used in more dramatic contexts or when describing the severity of the rain. It can also be used metaphorically to describe a large amount of anything happening all at once.

• The sudden deluge flooded the streets within minutes.
• After the announcement, there was a deluge of calls to the customer service department.

'Torrent' implies a very fast and powerful flow of rain or water. It has a more intense connotation and is often used to describe chaotic or forceful rain. The term can also be used metaphorically to describe an overwhelming rush of anything, often with a negative or intense connotation.

• The rain came down in torrents, making it difficult to see.
• After the scandal broke, he faced a torrent of criticism.