Definition

A type of low, gray cloud that brings steady rain, snow, or sleet.

Example

The weather forecast predicts that nimbostratus clouds will cover the sky, bringing rain throughout the day.

Conversation

Have you noticed those nimbostratus clouds forming in the sky?

Yeah, they look pretty gloomy; I think it's going to rain soon.

I prefer sunny weather, but those clouds can bring much-needed rain.

True! A little rain is good for the plants, even if the nimbostratus clouds look dreary.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Nimbostratus → It is formed from "nimbus" (from Latin, meaning rain or cloud) and "stratus" (from Latin, meaning layered or spread out). The word describes a type of cloud that is layered and associated with continuous rain.

Memory Tip

Think of 'nimbus' as a cloud that brings rain, and 'stratus' as something that is spread out — together, they describe a cloud that spreads out and brings rain.

Visually Confused Words