English Department

at the University of Michigan-Flint

sunshower

Sunshower (n.): sunshine + rainfall.

According to Karen Davis’ mother, who grew up in the South, a sunshower is a sign that the devil is beating his wife behind the door. (I’m curious why it’s specified as “the” door, rather than “a” door–as if we should all know which door. The kitchen door, naturally.)

In Japan, a sunshower means that foxes are getting married. More specifically, that a male fox is receiving a bride.

Curious about other languages?  Check out Dr. Bert Vaux’s summary here.