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

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web Another was later issued for Fresno County after reports of a funnel cloud, the first tornado activity in the area in 11 years, according to the National Weather Service. —

Susanne Rust, Los Angeles Times, 11 Mar. 2023 Then a funnel cloud twisted down from the clouds, even as the cloud line itself touched earth in the distance, where a tornado had landed. —

Chris Mooney, Discover Magazine, 26 May 2011 People reported significant damage in areas near Grapevine and several videos captured a funnel cloud. —

Dallas News, 13 Dec. 2022 One fiery funnel cloud on August 15 was so powerful, the National Weather Service issued what’s believed to be its first fire tornado warning. —

Discover Magazine, 25 Aug. 2020 Seeing a funnel cloud on the horizon is one of the scariest things anyone can witness. —

Doug Criss, CNN, 28 Nov. 2022 This storm continues to exhibit low- to mid-level rotation, and produced at least one funnel cloud. —

Chicago Tribune, 25 May 2022 The sky was dark, but there was a rainbow, a funnel cloud and hail. —

Sharon Coolidge, The Enquirer, 26 Aug. 2022 At least one funnel cloud was seen, according to the service. —

Chicago Tribune, 25 May 2022 See More

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'funnel cloud.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.