funnel cloud

noun

: a funnel-shaped cloud that projects from the base of a thundercloud and that often precedes the formation of a tornado
also : tornado sense 1a

Examples of funnel cloud in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Radar showed funnel clouds tracking north. — Kansas City Star, 22 May 2026 Lightning, hail, gusty winds, brief heavy rain and funnel clouds are expected. — Don Sweeney, Sacbee.com, 21 Apr. 2026 Conditions are favorable for the development of weak, brief funnel clouds. — Southern California Weather Report, Oc Register, 3 May 2026 Video showed debris getting lifted and swirled into the air near a narrow funnel cloud, according to the NWS. — Adam Harrington, CBS News, 25 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for funnel cloud

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1909, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of funnel cloud was circa 1909

Rhymes for funnel cloud

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Browse Nearby Words

funnel cake
funnel cloud
funnelform
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Funnel cloud.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/funnel%20cloud. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on funnel cloud

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about funnel cloud

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