Definition

The process of rain removing soil or other materials from a surface, often leading to erosion.

Example

The heavy rain caused significant rainwash on the hillside, washing away the topsoil.

Conversation

Did you see how much soil got washed away after the storm last night?

Yeah, the rainwash was pretty severe in some areas.

I hope they can fix the damage quickly before more rain comes.

Same here; it’s amazing how much impact a little rain can have.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

This word originates from the combination of 'rain' (from Old English 'regn', meaning water droplets falling from the sky) and 'wash' (from Old English 'wæscan', meaning to cleanse with water). The term 'rainwash' refers to the act of cleansing or washing something with rainwater.

Memory Tip

Think of 'rain' as water falling from the sky and 'wash' as cleansing something. Together, 'rainwash' means to cleanse with rain.

Visually Confused Words