1. periods of increased rainfall, especially during ice ages
Usage: geological; climatological
2. ceremonial cloaks worn by clergy during religious processions
Usage: ecclesiastical

Examples

• The pluvials of the Pleistocene epoch created vast lakes in what is now the American Southwest.
• During the last ice age, pluvials brought heavy rainfall to many desert regions.
• Geologists study ancient pluvials to understand past climate patterns.
• The priests wore ornate pluvials during the Easter procession.
• Medieval pluvials were often decorated with gold thread and precious stones.
• The cathedral’s collection includes several historic pluvials from the 15th century.