What type of precipitation is most closely associated with continuous rain?

Nimbostratus precipitation is closely associated with continuous rain because nimbostratus clouds are thick, uniform clouds that cover the sky and produce steady, consistent precipitation over a wide area. They are typically found in stable atmospheric conditions and are known for their ability to deliver prolonged periods of rain, as opposed to intermittent or short bursts of precipitation.

In contrast, drizzle refers to very light rain consisting of small water droplets, while showers are often characterized by sporadic, short-lived rain events. Ice pellets, also known as sleet, occur when raindrops freeze before reaching the ground but do not describe a continuous form of precipitation. Therefore, nimbostratus clouds and their associated precipitation stand out as the source of long-lasting rain, making them the correct answer.