raining cats and dogs

1. Raining very heavily: “We wanted to play touch football, but now it's raining cats and dogs, so I guess we'll stay inside.”

Example Sentences

“But we’ve had nine powerful back-to-back storms rip through the county over the past week alone. Unfortunately, when it’s raining cats and dogs, there’s not a lot we can do but wait it out.”

From Los Angeles Times

According to the poll, only 9% say they always use an umbrella to keep themselves dry when it’s raining cats and dogs.

From Seattle Times

For example, if he hears the expression “It’s raining cats and dogs,” he expects tabbies and terriers to fall from the skies.

From Washington Post

“Our wedding was so beautiful, even though it was raining cats and dogs that day,” she said.

From Reuters

"The story of 'raining cats and dogs' has invited many colourful tales over the centuries," says Dent.

From BBC

Related Words

• bitter
• blustery
• damp
• frigid
• murky
• rainy
• tempestuous
• torrid
• turbulent
• violent
• wet
• windy