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thunderous

B1
Uncommon

Pronunciation

UK

  • /θˈʌndərəs/

US

  • /ˈθəndərəs/

Meanings

Adjective

  1. extremely loud, deep, and booming in sound

  2. accompanied by thunder or sounding like a thunderstorm

  3. dark, angry, or threatening in mood or expression

Beyond the definition

Imagine a storm rolling in: the booming crash of thunder is not just loud, it is thunderous. This word goes beyond simple volume; it suggests great power and a deep, rolling sound. Thunderous applause after a performance is not merely clapping; it is a wave of sound that fills the room. You might describe a speaker with a thunderous voice, one that demands attention and carries strongly. It is often used for things that sound dramatic, heavy, or forceful, like crashing waves, rumbling trains, or a thunderous roar from a crowd.

Examples

  1. 1

    Audience reaction

    The singer returned to the stage to thunderous applause.

  2. 2

    Sudden noise

    A thunderous crash from the garage made everyone jump.

  3. 3

    Angry voice

    The manager came in with a thunderous voice and demanded an explanation.

  4. 4

    Public criticism

    The new policy drew thunderous criticism from teachers and parents.

More examples
  1. 5

    Figurative silence

    When he finished his speech, he was met with thunderous silence.

    • Phrasethunderous silence

      a very noticeable silence that shows shock, anger, or disapproval

See also

Similar

Shades of meaning

Contrast

Used with (collocations)

  • thunderous applause
  • thunderous roar
  • thunderous crash
  • thunderous voice

Word family

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Forms and spellings

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Main spelling

  • thunderousadjective