Rain

Definition

The term "rain" describes water droplets that fall from the atmosphere to the ground, often as part of the Earth's weather cycle.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /reɪn/
• Respelling: RAYN

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /reɪn/
• Respelling: RAYN

Etymology

The word "rain" originates from Old English "regn" or "ren," derived from Proto-Germanic "*regna," meaning "rain." It is related to Old Norse "regn," Dutch "regen," and German "Regen," all referring to precipitation.

Derivatives

• Rainfall (noun)
• Rainy (adjective)
• Rainstorm (noun)
• Rainless (adjective)
• Raincoat (noun)

Synonyms

• Precipitation
• Drizzle
• Shower

Antonyms

• Drought
• Aridity
• None

Usage

The term "rain" is used in both literal and metaphorical contexts. For example, "The rain started to pour heavily" or "She received a rain of compliments."

Related Terms

• Weather: The state of the atmosphere at a given time and place.
• Cloud: A visible mass of condensed water vapor in the sky.
• Hydrology: The scientific study of water on Earth.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• Water that falls from the sky as droplets: Refers to atmospheric water precipitation.
  • Example: "The sound of rain on the roof is soothing."
• An abundance of something falling or arriving rapidly: Refers to a metaphorical or literal downpour of objects or events.
  • Example: "The performers received a rain of applause."

Verb

• To fall as water droplets from the sky: Refers to the action of precipitation occurring.
  • Example: "It started to rain just as we left the house."
• To shower or pour down abundantly: Refers to the act of falling in great quantities.
  • Example: "The fireworks rained sparks over the crowd."