Definition

The amount of water that falls from the sky as rain, often measured over a specific period and area.

Example

The rainfall this month has been higher than average, helping to replenish the local rivers.

Conversation

Did you hear about the heavy rainfall last night?

Yeah, I saw it on the news; they said it was unexpected.

I hope it doesn't cause any flooding in the area.

Same here! Too much rainfall can be really dangerous.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Rainfall → It is formed from "rain" (from Old English *regn*, meaning water droplets that fall from the sky) and "fall" (from Old English *feallan*, meaning to drop or descend). The word "rainfall" refers to the amount of rain that falls in a specific area over a period of time.

Memory Tip

Think of water droplets ('rain') that 'drop' ('fall') from the sky — that's what rainfall means.

Visually Confused Words