Snowfall: meaning, definitions and examples

❄️

Add to dictionary

snowfall

[ˈsnəʊfɔːl ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

weather

The falling of snow to the ground in great quantities.

Synonyms

blizzard, snow shower, snowstorm.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
snowfall	Repetition of 'snowfall'; already described above. Refer to the description under 'snowfall'
snowstorm	Strong and heavy snow with no specific mention of wind strength; duration can vary. The snowstorm lasted all night, covering everything in a thick layer of snow Schools were closed due to the intense snowstorm
blizzard	Severe snowstorm with strong winds and low visibility, often dangerous. The city declared a state of emergency due to the blizzard Traveling during a blizzard can be extremely risky
snow shower	Brief period of snow that is usually light to moderate in intensity and doesn’t last long. We experienced a snow shower this morning, but it cleared up quickly Snow showers are common in early spring

Examples of usage

The snowfall last night was quite heavy.
We measured the snowfall in inches.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

measurement

The amount of snow that falls within a specific period of time, usually expressed in inches or centimeters.

Synonyms

snow accumulation, snow depth.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
snowfall	Use when referring to the event of snow falling from the sky. Suitable for meteorological contexts and everyday conversations about weather conditions. The snowfall last night was heavier than expected. We enjoyed watching the snowfall from the window.
snow accumulation	Use when talking about the amount of snow that has gathered on the ground over a period of time. This term is often used in weather reports and in discussions regarding the impact of snow on daily activities. The snow accumulation this week has caused delays in transportation. Due to the high snow accumulation, we need to clear the driveway.
snow depth	Use when referring to the measurement of how deep the snow is on the ground. This is generally used in specialized contexts such as weather forecasting, skiing, or discussing safety conditions. The snow depth in the mountains has reached two meters. Before going hiking, check the snow depth for safety.

Word

Description / Examples

snowfall

Use when referring to the event of snow falling from the sky. Suitable for meteorological contexts and everyday conversations about weather conditions.

The snowfall last night was heavier than expected.
We enjoyed watching the snowfall from the window.

snow accumulation

Use when talking about the amount of snow that has gathered on the ground over a period of time. This term is often used in weather reports and in discussions regarding the impact of snow on daily activities.

The snow accumulation this week has caused delays in transportation.
Due to the high snow accumulation, we need to clear the driveway.

snow depth

Use when referring to the measurement of how deep the snow is on the ground. This is generally used in specialized contexts such as weather forecasting, skiing, or discussing safety conditions.

The snow depth in the mountains has reached two meters.
Before going hiking, check the snow depth for safety.

Examples of usage

The forecast predicts a snowfall of 5 inches tomorrow.
The average annual snowfall in this region is 30 inches.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

nature

The beauty and tranquility of snow falling from the sky.

Synonyms

snowflakes dancing, winter wonderland.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
snowfall	This term is suitable for general and neutral description of snow falling from the sky, often used in weather reports. There is expected to be a heavy snowfall tonight The first snowfall of the year is always magical
snowflakes dancing	A poetic and descriptive phrase used to describe a gentle, picturesque snowfall. It evokes a sense of beauty and wonder. We watched the snowflakes dancing outside the window The children were mesmerized by the snowflakes dancing in the air
winter wonderland	Used to describe a picturesque scene where everything is covered in snow, creating a magical, serene atmosphere. Often has positive connotations and is used in contexts related to enjoyment and beauty. The park turned into a winter wonderland after the snowfall They walked through the forest, which had become a winter wonderland overnight

Word

Description / Examples

snowfall

This term is suitable for general and neutral description of snow falling from the sky, often used in weather reports.

There is expected to be a heavy snowfall tonight
The first snowfall of the year is always magical

snowflakes dancing

A poetic and descriptive phrase used to describe a gentle, picturesque snowfall. It evokes a sense of beauty and wonder.

We watched the snowflakes dancing outside the window
The children were mesmerized by the snowflakes dancing in the air

winter wonderland

Used to describe a picturesque scene where everything is covered in snow, creating a magical, serene atmosphere. Often has positive connotations and is used in contexts related to enjoyment and beauty.

The park turned into a winter wonderland after the snowfall
They walked through the forest, which had become a winter wonderland overnight

Examples of usage

The snowfall created a picturesque scene in the forest.
I love watching the snowfall gently covering the landscape.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'snow' comes from the Old English word 'snāw,' which has been used for over a thousand years.
The term 'fall' in this context means to come down, indicating how snow descends from clouds.

Science

Snowflakes are formed when water vapor freezes in the atmosphere, creating unique and beautiful crystals.
The temperature needs to be below 32 degrees Fahrenheit (0 degrees Celsius) for snowfall to occur.
The size and shape of snowflakes can vary based on humidity and temperature—some can be tiny while others can be large and fluffy.

Cultural Significance

Snowfall often symbolizes a fresh start or a clean slate in literature and art.
In some cultures, snowfall is associated with celebrations, such as winter festivals, bringing joy and merriment.

Climatology

Certain regions, like the Arctic, can receive substantial amounts of snowfall, impacting local ecosystems and weather patterns.
Changes in global temperatures are influencing snowfall patterns, leading to more rain in some areas that traditionally experienced heavy snow.

Pop Culture

Movies like 'Frozen' and 'Snow Day' feature snowfall as a central theme, illustrating the beauty and playfulness of winter.
Snowfall is often depicted in holiday music and cards, evoking feelings of nostalgia and warmth during the cold season.

Translations

Translations of the word "snowfall" in other languages:

🇵🇹 neve

🇮🇳 बर्फबारी

🇩🇪 Schneefall

🇮🇩 salju turun

🇺🇦 снігопад

🇵🇱 opady śniegu

🇯🇵 降雪 (こうせつ)

🇫🇷 chute de neige

🇪🇸 nevada

🇹🇷 kar yağışı

🇰🇷 강설 (gangseol)

🇸🇦 تساقط الثلوج

🇨🇿 sněžení

🇸🇰 sneženie

🇨🇳 降雪 (jiàng xuě)

🇸🇮 sneženje

🇮🇸 snjókoma

🇰🇿 қар жауу

🇬🇪 თოვლის მოსვლა (tovlis mosvla)

🇦🇿 qar yağışı

🇲🇽 nevada