thunderous

adjective

thun·​der·​ous ˈthən-d(ə-)rəs 

1

a

: producing thunder

b

: making or accompanied by a noise like thunder

thunderous applause

2

: thundering

thunderously adverb

Synonyms of thunderous

• loud
• deafening
• roaring
• ringing
• thundering

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

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

Erick Fedde made only two relief appearances, including the memorable bulk role in Game 3 of the ALDS, leaving to thunderous applause and the sound of 40,000 Sox fans chanting his name. — Paul Sullivan, Chicago Tribune, 13 Oct. 2026

Davidson's request was immediately met with cheers and thunderous applause from the studio audience. — Tracy Wright, FOXNews.com, 6 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1582, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

thunderous

adjective

thun·​der·​ous ˈthən-d(ə-)rəs 

1

: producing thunder

2

: making a noise like thunder

thunderous applause

thunderously adverb