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Ice pellets

UK //aɪs ˈpɛl.ts// US //aɪs ˈpɛl.ɪts// Pronunciation

Definition

Small, hard balls of ice that fall from the sky during certain weather conditions.

Listen to definition

In simple words: Small pieces of ice that fall from the sky like rain.

Examples

• The weather forecast predicted ice pellets this evening.
• Driving in ice pellets can be very dangerous due to poor visibility.
• Ice pellets formed a thin layer of ice on the road after the storm.
• Many people took cover as ice pellets began to fall from the sky.
• The mixture of rain and ice pellets created slippery sidewalks.

Usage notes

Commonly used in weather reports; not used in casual conversation. Typically referred to when describing a specific type of precipitation.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of tiny ice cubes falling like frozen raindrops.

Collocations

• falling ice pellets
• ice pellets accumulation
• hazardous ice pellets

Synonyms

• sleet
• freezing rain
• ice rain

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'hail' - ice pellets are smaller.
• Used incorrectly in singular form - 'ice pellet' is rarely used.
• Assuming all ice from the sky is called 'snow.'