Precipitation, n.
Etymology: [L. praecipitatio: cf. F. précipitation.]
1. The act of precipitating, or the state of being precipitated, or thrown headlong. In peril of precipitation From off rock Tarpeian. Shak.
2. A falling, flowing, or rushing downward with violence and rapidity. The hurry, precipitation, and rapid motion of the water, returning . . . towards the sea. Woodward.
3. Great hurry; rash, tumultuous haste; impetuosity. "The precipitation of inexperience." Rambler.
4. (Chem.)
1 more senses
The act or process from a solution.
Shades of meaning
Fernald has no entry of its own for precipitation; he lists it under temerity.
He lists it without comment; the entries above explain its neighbors.