rainfall

noun

rain·​fall ˈrān-ˌfȯl How to pronounce rainfall (audio)
1
: the amount of precipitation usually measured by the depth in inches
2

Examples of rainfall in a Sentence

This area has an average annual rainfall of 12 inches. an increase in annual rainfall
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Those amounts are in stark contrast to the rainfall totals from January. Amy Graff, New York Times, 21 Feb. 2025 This, according to the National Weather Service, saw many areas receive up to 6 inches of rainfall in just a 48-hour period. Dan Perry, Newsweek, 19 Feb. 2025 Unlike the downpour and strong winds last week, the rainfall in the North Bay is expected to be minimal — less than a quarter-inch over a couple of days. Hema Sivanandam, The Mercury News, 18 Feb. 2025 Listen to this article At least eight people were killed and thousands remained without power Sunday as rainfall and floodwaters inundated Kentucky. Joseph Wilkinson, New York Daily News, 16 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for rainfall

Word History

First Known Use

1817, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of rainfall was in 1817

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Cite this Entry

“Rainfall.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rainfall. Accessed 27 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

rainfall

noun
rain·​fall -ˌfȯl How to pronounce rainfall (audio)
1
: a fall of rain
2
: amount of precipitation
an annual rainfall of 20 inches

More from Merriam-Webster on rainfall

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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