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cloudburst
/ˈklaʊd.bɜːst/
sudden heavy rainfall
A cloudburst drenched the city streets in minutes.
A sudden, intense downpour flooded the streets quickly.
technical
A sudden and heavy rainfall, often localized and intense.
The cloudburst caused flash flooding in the valley.
The sudden heavy rain led to rapid flooding in the valley.
Meteorologists warned of potential cloudbursts during the monsoon season.
Weather experts predicted sudden, heavy rainfall events during the rainy season.
Often used in weather forecasts and meteorological reports. Can cause rapid flooding due to the intensity of rainfall.
Collocations
heavy cloudburstvery intense rainfalllocalized cloudburstrainfall confined to a small areacloudburst warningalert about imminent heavy rainfall
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Distinguish from 'downpour'
'Cloudburst' implies both suddenness and intensity, often leading to flooding, while 'downpour' simply means heavy rain without the implication of rapid consequences.
Gold Rule
Weather terminology
Use 'cloudburst' for sudden, intense rainfall, especially in meteorological or technical contexts. Avoid using it for light or gradual rain.
Word Origin
Compound of 'cloud' (Old English 'clūd') + 'burst' (Old English 'berstan', meaning 'to break'). First recorded in the late 19th century.
Usage Notes
While 'cloudburst' specifically refers to the rainfall itself, it is often associated with sudden flooding. The term is more common in meteorological contexts than in everyday speech.
Word Breakdown
cloud
a visible mass of condensed water vapor floating in the atmosphere
rootburst
to break open suddenly
rootEnglish Dictionary