Definition

A sudden and very heavy rain that falls in a short period of time.

Example

The cloudburst caused flash flooding in the streets.

Conversation

Did you see that cloudburst yesterday?

Yeah, it came out of nowhere and drenched everything!

I know, right? I wasn't even carrying an umbrella.

Same here! It was such a surprise.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cloudburst is formed from "cloud" (from Old English "clud", meaning a mass of vapor or moisture in the sky) and "burst" (from Old English "berstan", meaning to break open or explode). The word describes a sudden and intense rainfall that seems to burst from the clouds.

Memory Tip

Imagine a mass of vapor ('cloud') suddenly 'breaking open' ('burst') to release a heavy downpour — that's what a cloudburst means.

Visually Confused Words