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.
Attendees later erupted into thunderous cheering when both Nixon and Ocasio-Cortez separately arrived on stage. — Silas Morgan, The Orlando Sentinel, 28 Oct. 2026 Or when it’s not scripted for the set’s bed to break with a thunderous clatter. — Whitney Friedlander, Los Angeles Times, 26 Oct. 2026 As Lubelo takes his final bow to thunderous applause, his mom beams a proud smile at the 11-year-old apprentice magician. — Julie Bourdin, NPR, 25 Oct. 2026 Thankfully, the tame control of the bass helps prevent the drums from becoming overly thunderous. — Mark Knapp, PC Magazine, 15 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 1 Nov. 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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