RAINFALL Meaning and
Definition
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Rainfall refers to the amount of precipitation that falls from the atmosphere in the form of rain. It is a natural meteorological phenomenon and an essential component of the Earth's water cycle. Rainfall occurs when moisture-laden air masses cool down and condense, forming droplets that become too heavy to suspend in the air and fall to the ground due to gravity.
Rainfall is a crucial factor in determining the Earth's climate and affects various ecological and environmental processes. It plays a vital role in sustaining both natural and human-made ecosystems as it provides water for plants, animals, and human populations. Additionally, rainfall is significant for agriculture, as it nourishes crops and supports food production.
Meteorologists measure rainfall using different tools and units. The most common unit of measurement worldwide is millimeters (or inches in some regions), which indicates the depth of rain that would accumulate if it were not absorbed into the ground or evaporated. Rainfall is often reported as average monthly or annual values, indicating the long-term climatic conditions of a particular region.
Rainfall patterns vary greatly across the globe due to factors such as topography, prevailing winds, and atmospheric conditions. Some regions experience abundant rainfall, known as wet or rainy areas, while others may suffer from limited rainfall, called arid or semi-arid regions. Extremes in rainfall can lead to significant consequences, such as floods or droughts, which can have severe impacts on ecosystems, agriculture, and human settlements.
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The water that falls in rains.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for RAINFALL
Etymology of RAINFALL
The word "rainfall" is derived from the combination of two root words: "rain" and "fall".
The word "rain" originated from the Old English word "regn", which can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "regnaz". This word ultimately stems from the Proto-Indo-European root "*reg-" meaning "moist, wet". Over time, the word "regn" evolved into "rain" in Middle English.
The word "fall" originated from the Old English word "feallan", which is also related to the Proto-Germanic root "*fallaną", meaning "to fall". This word has similar cognates in various Germanic languages, such as "fallen" in German and "falla" in Old Norse. In the context of rainfall, "fall" refers to the descending motion of raindrops.
Similar spelling words for RAINFALL
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