thunderous

adjective

thun·​der·​ous ˈthən-d(ə-)rəs How to pronounce thunderous (audio)
Synonyms of thunderousnext
1
a
: producing thunder
b
: making or accompanied by a noise like thunder
thunderous applause
2
: thundering
thunderously adverb

Synonyms of thunderous

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Examples of thunderous in a Sentence

The audience responded with thunderous applause. the last thunderous chord of the symphony rang throughout the hall
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.
Thankfully, the tame control of the bass helps prevent the drums from becoming overly thunderous. — Mark Knapp, PC Magazine, 15 Oct. 2026 Carousel music mixed with the thunderous roar of roller coaster carts exploding through dizzying loops and heart-stopping drops. — Ray Sanchez, CNN Money, 14 Oct. 2026 The director, standing beside key cast members Andrew Garfield and Yura Borisov, received thunderous applause at Royal Festival Hall. — Matt Donnelly, Variety, 14 Oct. 2026 Expect to see some thunderous passes — maybe inadvertently from one goalkeeper to another — as the big kickers meet. — Thom Harris, New York Times, 14 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for thunderous

Word History

First Known Use

1582, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of thunderous was in 1582

Browse Nearby Words

thunder mug
thunderous
thunderpeal
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Thunderous.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/thunderous. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

thunderous

adjective
thun·​der·​ous ˈthən-d(ə-)rəs How to pronounce thunderous (audio)
1
: producing thunder
2
: making a noise like thunder
thunderous applause
thunderously adverb
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