torrential

[taw-ren-shuhl, toh-, tuh-]

adjective

1. pertaining to or having the nature of a torrent.

2. resembling a torrent in rapidity or violence.

3. falling in torrents.

   torrential rains.

4. produced by the action of a torrent.

5. violent, vehement, or impassioned.

6. overwhelming; extraordinarily copious.

torrential

/ tə-, tɒˈrɛnʃəl /

adjective

1. of or relating to a torrent

2. pouring or flowing fast, violently, or heavily

   torrential rain

3. abundant, overwhelming, or irrepressible

   torrential abuse

Other Word Forms

• torrentially adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of torrential¹

First recorded in 1840–50; torrent + -ial

Example Sentences

Fatalities have been reported at the festival in the past, including a death during torrential rain in 2023 and a man who ran into the Man while it was on fire in 2017.

From BBC

The dramatic weather recalled torrential rains that flooded the camp in 2023, leaving thousands stranded in deep, sticky mud.

From Los Angeles Times

“This season of permanent torrential downpour gets to a point where you’re like, ‘Enough,’ he says with a sigh.

From Los Angeles Times

They were followed perversely by torrential rains in 1861, which drowned hundreds of head.

From Los Angeles Times

Tens of thousands turned out for the March for Humanity on Sunday despite torrential rain - with many carrying placards with messages to politicians to stop the war.

From BBC

Related Words

• teeming