# rain down

CEFR B2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/rain-down
Updated: 2026-10-22

## Definition

to fall in large amounts from above, like rain. You can use this when many things, like ash or even insults, fall on someone or something at once.

For teachers: To fall or descend in large quantities from a height. Often used figuratively to describe the rapid and heavy delivery of objects, criticisms, or blows.

## Examples

- Confetti rained down on the winners.
- After the team won the championship, thousands of pieces of gold paper rained down on the players.
- As the regime collapsed, accusations of corruption rained down upon the former ministers from every corner of the press.

## Pitfalls

- Not "A single stone rained down from the wall." but "A single stone fell from the wall." — 'Rain down' implies a large quantity of items falling simultaneously, not a single object.

## Usage notes

- Often used with 'on' or 'upon' to indicate the target or location of the falling items.
- Teaching tip: Contrast with 'pour down', which usually refers specifically to heavy rain, whereas 'rain down' can apply to any numerous objects.

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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.