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rain frog

A common name applied to various frog species known for calling loudly before or during rain, most notably the spring peeper in North America and various burrowing frogs in southern Africa.

ˈɹeɪn ˈfɹɑɡ123 viewsLast reviewed Jun 29, 2026+ Add a definition
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#1·Apr 28, 2026

A common name applied to various frog species known for calling loudly before or during rain, most notably the spring peeper in North America and various burrowing frogs in southern Africa. The name reflects folk observation that frogs tend to vocalize more actively in wet or pre-storm conditions. In the US, 'rain frog' most often refers to the spring peeper (Pseudacris crucifer); in South Africa and Australia, it's applied to burrowing frog genera. Usage is informal and regional.

The chorus of rain frogs starting up at dusk was the surest sign the dry spell was about to break.
Origin: A descriptive compound combining 'rain' (reflecting the association between frog calls and rainfall) + 'frog.' Applied independently to different species in different regions based on this shared behavioral observation. Editorial expansion authored on Slangora.
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#2·Apr 27, 2026

Any of many species of frogs in diverse genera.

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#3·Apr 27, 2026

(US) A tree frog, especially, a spring peeper.

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