rainy day

noun

1. a time of need or emergency:

   saving money for a rainy day.

rainy day

noun

1. a future time of need, esp financial

Other Words From

• rainy-day adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of rainy day¹

First recorded in 1570–80

Example Sentences

For Dorothy, her salary as a substitute teacher doesn’t let her build an adequate rainy day or retirement fund, even though she receives alimony from her ex-husband.

From Salon

If it’s a rainy day, or my kids are in a bad mood, there’s one place we can go.

From Los Angeles Times

I am a cinephile who loves devouring Turner Classic Movies on a rainy day.

From Salon

Shedd Aquarium—Perfect for a cold, hot or rainy day, the Shedd Aquarium offers hours of fun, all protected from the elements.

From Salon

Like on that gray, rainy day back in March when he told his players their school was closing.

From Seattle Times

More About Rainy Day

What is a rainy day?

Rainy day refers figuratively to a time of need or an emergency, as in Tomas was glad he saved for a rainy day when he lost his job unexpectedly.

Most often rainy day is used in reference to saving money for unexpected emergencies or needs, such as accidents, medical emergencies, or the loss of a job. People also save other things they might need in an emergency, such as nonperishable food. They might also keep items handy for an unexpected need, such as a small sewing kit in their luggage in case they need to sew up a small hole in their clothes while they’re traveling.

Example: Samira always saves her birthday money for a rainy day.

Where does rainy day come from?

The first records of rainy day meaning “time of need” come from around the 1570s.

Saving money for a rainy day is commonly seen as a good way to help avoid debt. While we can’t predict what emergencies might come up in the future, emergencies do happen to most people. Being able to set aside money, a little at a time, can help you pay the cost of those emergencies.

Did you know … ?

What are some synonyms for rainy day?

• adversity
• trough

What are some words that share a root or word element with rainy day?

• rainy
• day

What are some words that often get used in discussing rainy day?

• keep
• money
• save

How is rainy day used in real life?

Most people realize that it’s wise to save for a rainy day, but it’s not always easy to do!

And I been tryna save my money for a rainy day!!!!

— MeekMill (@MeekMill) October 31, 2020

 

 

Save for a rainy day STOP SPENDING ALL UR MONEY ON A PAIR OF GUCCI SHOES 😩

— natalie nunn (@missnatalienunn) February 11, 2020

Try using rainy day!

Is rainy day used correctly in the following sentence?

I really want these speakers, but I’ll save that money for a rainy day instead.