# monsoon

/mɑnˈsun/ (US) · /mənsˈuːn/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/monsoon
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

a season of very heavy rain and strong winds, especially in South Asia. It can also mean the heavy rain itself.

For teachers: a seasonal prevailing wind in the region of South and Southeast Asia, blowing from the southwest between May and September and bringing rain, or from the northeast between October and April.

## Examples

- The monsoon brings much-needed rain to the farmers.
- During the monsoon, many streets in the city become flooded due to the intense daily downpours.
- The arrival of the summer monsoon is critical for the subcontinent's agriculture, yet its increasing unpredictability poses a significant threat to food security and regional infrastructure.

## Usage notes

- Often used with the definite article ('the monsoon') when referring to the specific annual season.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.