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precipitation
/ˌprɛsɪˈteɪʃən/
any form of water falling from the atmosphere
The weather forecast predicts heavy precipitation tomorrow.
This means rain, snow, or other forms of water will fall from the sky.
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
Antonyms
Related Phrases
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
suffixEnglish Dictionary