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Thunder

UK //ˈθʌndə// US //ˈθʌndər// Pronunciation

Definition

A loud rumbling or crashing noise caused by electrical discharge during a storm.

Listen to definition

In simple words: A loud noise made by lightning.

Examples

• The thunder echoed through the mountains after the lightning struck.
• We could hear the thunder before the rain started pouring down.
• Children often get scared when they hear the loud thunder during a storm.
• She jumped when the thunder crashed nearby.
• The thunder rolled ominously as the storm approached.
• It sounded like thunder was shaking the entire house.

Usage notes

Use 'thunder' when speaking about storms. It is not typically used in formal contexts. Avoid using it metaphorically.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'thunder' as a loud drumbeat from the sky during a storm.

Collocations

• hear thunder
• loud thunder
• heavy thunder
• thunder and lightning
• peal of thunder

Synonyms

• rumble
• roar
• boom
• crash
• din

Common mistakes

• Mixing 'thunder' with 'lightning' - 'thunder' is the sound, 'lightning' is the flash.
• Using 'thunder' to describe mild noises - it's specifically for the loud sound of storms.
• Confusing the spelling with 'thunderer' - they are different forms.