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
thunderously adverb

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.
The blast in Indonesia's restive eastern Papua region startled locals with a thunderous boom on Sunday afternoon, emitting a ball of flames followed by a thick smoke column, according to footage broadcast on Kompas TV. CBS News, 1 June 2026 In March, India’s home minister declared that the fight against Naxalism had been won – to thunderous applause in parliament. Dhruv Tikekar, CNN Money, 30 May 2026 The gesture drew thunderous applause from the audience of more than 5,000 guests, and the event raised nearly $700,000, illustrating how Gaultier used his platform to raise awareness and funding for a key American charity. Miles Socha, Footwear News, 26 May 2026 Moments earlier, Salah and Robertson had each re-emerged from the tunnel to thunderous applause as they were granted a guard of honour by their fellow players and club staff. James Pearce, New York Times, 24 May 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

Cite this Entry

“Thunderous.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/thunderous. Accessed 6 Jun. 2026.

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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