Definition

The amount of water, such as rain or snow, that falls from the sky in a certain area over a certain time.

Example

The weather report predicted heavy precipitation this weekend.

Conversation

Did you see the forecast for this week?

Yeah, they're predicting a lot of precipitation on Thursday.

I hope it clears up by the weekend for our hike.

Me too! It would be a shame to miss it because of the precipitation.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Precipitation → It is formed from "prae-" (meaning before) and "capere" (meaning to seize or take). The word refers to the act of taking or falling down from the sky, as in rain or snow, which occurs before it reaches the ground.

Memory Tip

Think of something 'falling down' ('capere') from above, as it happens 'before' it reaches the ground ('prae-'). This helps you remember that precipitation refers to water falling from the sky.

Visually Confused Words