drizzle

UK: ˈdrɪz(ə)l | US: ˈdrɪz(ə)l

Definition

  1. n. light rain falling in very fine drops

  2. vt. to rain lightly in fine drops

  3. vi. to let something fall lightly or scatter in small amounts

Structure
driz <to moisten>zle <frequentative suffix>
Etymology

drizzle = driz<to moisten> + zle<frequentative suffix>

  • driz: Likely derived from Old English drēosan (to fall or perish) or related to Middle English drisen (to drip). The core idea is "to moisten" or "to fall lightly."
  • zle: A frequentative suffix (common in English verbs like "dazzle," "sparkle"), indicating repetitive or ongoing action.

Etymology Origin:
"Drizzle" emerged in Middle English (as drisning), likely imitative of the sound or motion of light rain. The "driz-" root evokes gentle wetness, while "-zle" suggests a continuous, scattered action. This aligns with the word’s modern sense of persistent, fine rain.

Examples

  1. The morning drizzle made the streets glisten.

  2. She drizzled honey over her toast.

  3. Forecasters predict drizzle throughout the afternoon.

  4. A light drizzle began just as we left the house.

  5. He absentmindedly drizzled paint onto the canvas.