Definition: Any or all of the forms of water particles, whether liquid or solid, that fall from the atmosphere (e.g., rain, hail, snow or sleet). It is a major class of hydrometeor, but it is distinguished from cloud, fog, dew, rime, frost, etc., in that it must fall. It is distinguished from cloud and virga in that it must reach the ground.

Alright class, settle down, let’s take a peek, At “precipitation,” a word we need to speak! The dictionary gives us a lovely guide, Let's break it down with nothing to hide. It says "water particles," that’s the key, In forms you see – liquid and maybe glee! (Solid too, of course, let’s don’t forget, Like snow or hail, we haven't finished yet!) From the atmosphere it starts its fall, Raindrops dancing, answering nature’s call. Hailstones bouncing, a frosty delight, Snowflakes swirling, sparkling white! Sleet is icy, a chilly treat, All forms of water, oh so sweet! But listen close, this part's quite true, It must fall down, for precipitation to ensue. It’s different from clouds, fluffy and high, And fog that hangs low in the sky. Virga is a tricky thing, you see, Falling from clouds, but not reaching me! So remember this lesson, bright and bold, Precipitation's water, stories to be told! Do you have any questions, little scholars dear?