Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

rain-shadow

Noun

/ˈreɪn ˈʃædoʊ/

Definition

A region having little precipitation due to the effect of a mountain range that forces moist air to rise and cool, leading to condensation and rainfall on one side while leaving the other side dry.

Examples

As the air ascended the mountains, it cooled and caused rain to fall, creating a lush environment in the valley, while the opposite side remained a rain-shadow.
The deserts in some parts of the country are often a result of rain-shadow effects from nearby mountain ranges.

Meaning

The term ‘rain-shadow’ refers to the dry area on the leeward side of a mountain range, where there is significantly less rainfall compared to the windward side.