thundercloud

noun

thun·​der·​cloud ˈthən-dər-ˌklau̇d How to pronounce thundercloud (audio)
: a cloud charged with electricity and producing lightning and thunder

Examples of thundercloud in a Sentence

We watched the gathering thunderclouds.
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.
But with a bright sun this year replacing the thunderclouds seen during last year’s parade, Sunday both looked and felt colossal. Rafael Olmeda, Sun Sentinel, 23 June 2025 For the third time in 72 hours, thunderclouds forced a match delay yesterday, suspending Palmeiras’ Group A win over Al Ahly for 40 minutes. Phil Hay, New York Times, 20 June 2025 Wada's work focuses on high-energy phenomena in lightning flashes and thunderclouds. Julian Dossett, Space.com, 23 May 2025 Hayden Anderson is a Pulitzer Prize-winning human thundercloud. Lizz Schumer, People.com, 27 Dec. 2024 See All Example Sentences for thundercloud

Word History

First Known Use

1697, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of thundercloud was in 1697

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Thundercloud.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/thundercloud. Accessed 2 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

thundercloud

noun
thun·​der·​cloud -ˌklau̇d How to pronounce thundercloud (audio)
: a dark storm cloud that produces lightning and thunder
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!