Definition

Noun: - An alternative, pre-arranged date for an outdoor event, to be used if the originally scheduled date is canceled or disrupted due to rain or other inclement weather.

Usage

The term "rain date" is used specifically in the context of event planning. It refers to a backup plan. The primary date is the first choice, but if the weather is bad, the event is automatically postponed to the "rain date." - Always check the invitation to see if the wedding has a rain date. - The concert organizers announced a rain date for the following weekend.

Examples

• The school fair's rain date is the next Saturday.
• Tickets will be valid for the rain date if the game is postponed.
• "In case of storms, the rain date for the parade is June 10th."

Advanced Usage

• "To have a rain date": To have an alternative date scheduled.
  • Our company picnic has a rain date, so we don't have to worry about the forecast.
• The concept can be extended metaphorically to any backup plan for an event, though the term is strongly associated with weather.
  • We don't have a rain date for the meeting, so it will happen regardless.

Variants and Related Words

• Rain check: A related but distinct concept. A "rain check" is typically a ticket or promise that allows entry to a rescheduled event or a future purchase at a sale price, often issued after an event is canceled. A "rain date" is the specific alternative date itself.
  • The game was rained out, and they gave us a rain check for the make-up game next month. (The "rain date" for that game would be next month).

Synonyms

• Backup date
• Alternate date
• Contingency date
• Make-up date

Related Idioms and Phrases

• "To take a rain check": To politely decline an offer now while suggesting you may accept it later.
  • I can't join for dinner tonight, but can I take a rain check?
  • (Note: This idiom derives from the "rain check" concept, not directly from "rain date," but they share a common origin in weather-related postponements.)

Noun

1. an alternative date set for some outdoor event in case it rains on the appointed date
   • the rain date for the picnic will be the following Sunday