precipitation

/ˌprɛsɪˈteɪʃən/
nounIntermediate
general

Any form of water falling from the atmosphere, including rain, snow, sleet, or hail.

Precipitation is essential for replenishing groundwater supplies.

Rain and snow are needed to refill underground water sources.

💡

In meteorology, precipitation refers to all forms of water falling from clouds.

technical

The process of separating a solid from a solution by causing it to form a precipitate.

The reaction produced a white precipitate when the chemicals were mixed.

A solid substance formed and settled out of the liquid mixture.

💡

In chemistry, precipitation refers to the formation of a solid from a liquid solution.

Collocations

heavy precipitationa large amount of rain, snow, or other forms of water fallingprecipitation ratethe amount of precipitation that falls over a specific area in a given time

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

acid precipitationphrase
rain, snow, or other forms of precipitation that are acidic due to pollutants
precipitation hardeningphrase
a process in metallurgy where a material is strengthened by the formation of a precipitate

💡Pro Tip

Meteorological vs. Chemical Use

Be aware that 'precipitation' can refer to both weather phenomena and chemical processes, depending on the context.

Gold Rule

Context Matters

Always consider the context to determine whether 'precipitation' refers to weather or chemistry.

📖Word Origin

From Latin 'praecipitare' (to fall headlong), from 'praeceps' (headlong, steep).

📝Usage Notes

In everyday language, 'precipitation' often refers to rain or snow. In scientific contexts, it can refer to any form of water falling from the atmosphere or the formation of a solid in a solution.

Word Breakdown

pre-
before
prefix
+
-cip-
to fall
root
+
-it-
cause to
suffix
+
-ation
the process of
suffix
English Dictionary