Meaning & Definition of word "Precipitation"
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Precipitation
/prɪˌsɪpɪˈteɪʃən/
noun:
- 1. Any form of water, liquid or solid, that falls from clouds and reaches the ground.
- Example: The weather forecast predicts heavy precipitation this weekend.
- 2. The act of precipitating or the process of causing something to happen suddenly.
- Example: The sudden change in temperature resulted in the precipitation of ice on the roads.
- 3. The quantity of precipitation over a specific period, expressed as a depth of water.
- Example: The annual precipitation in the region averages around 40 inches.
Etymology
From Latin 'praecipitatio', from 'praecipitare' meaning 'to cast down' or 'to throw down'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
heavy precipitation:
A large amount of water falling within a given period of time.
precipitation forecast:
A prediction of the expected amount of rain, snow, or other moisture.
total precipitation:
The cumulative amount of moisture that falls over a specified time period.
Related Words
evaporation:
The process by which water turns into vapor.
condensation:
The process by which water vapor becomes liquid.
humidity:
The amount of water vapor present in the air.
Slang Meanings of precipitation
Meaning: A sudden rain
Example Sentence: We got caught in the precipitation on our way home.
Meaning: A downpour that occurs unexpectedly
Example Sentence: That was quite a surprise precipitation!