1. to cause something to happen suddenly or too soon
2. to fall as rain, snow, or other moisture
Usage: meteorology
3. to separate from a solution as a solid
Usage: chemistry

1. done too quickly without careful thought

1. a solid substance that separates from a liquid solution
Usage: chemistry

Examples

• The scandal precipitated his resignation from office.
• Heavy clouds began to precipitate over the mountains.
• The chemical reaction caused salt to precipitate from the solution.
• His precipitate decision to quit surprised everyone.
• The scientist collected the white precipitate at the bottom of the beaker.
• Economic troubles precipitated widespread protests.
• Don’t make such precipitate judgments about people you just met.