noun
thunderclap
THUHND-klap
Thunderclap (noun) means a single sudden loud crash of thunder from a nearby lightning strike, rather than a long rumble. Example: “A thunderclap right overhead made everyone jump.”
noun
1
A single sudden loud crash of thunder from a nearby lightning strike, rather than a long rumble.
"A thunderclap right overhead made everyone jump."
2
Something sudden and dramatic that has a big impact.
"The announcement landed like a thunderclap in the meeting room."
How to use thunderclap
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA sudden crash of thunder, or figuratively any sudden dramatic shock.
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Word forms
- Plural
- thunderclaps
- Third person singular
- thunderclaps
- Past tense
- thunderclapped
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
A _____ right overhead made everyone jump.
Etymology
From thunder + clap.
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “thunderclap” mean?
The word “thunderclap” means a single sudden loud crash of thunder from a nearby lightning strike, rather than a long rumble. In plain terms, a sudden crash of thunder, or figuratively any sudden dramatic shock.
How do you pronounce “thunderclap”?
“Thunderclap” is pronounced THUHND-klap (/ˈθʌndɚˌklæp/ in IPA).
How do you use “thunderclap” in a sentence?
Here is “thunderclap” used in a sentence: “A thunderclap right overhead made everyone jump.”
What part of speech is “thunderclap”?
“Thunderclap” is a noun.
How many meanings does “thunderclap” have?
“Thunderclap” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a single sudden loud crash of thunder from a nearby lightning strike, rather than a long rumble.