thunderstorm

noun

thun·​der·​storm ˈthən-dər-ˌstȯrm How to pronounce thunderstorm (audio)
: a storm accompanied by lightning and thunder

Examples of thunderstorm in a Sentence

There are thunderstorms in the forecast. The weather service has issued a severe thunderstorm warning.
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.
Clusters of thunderstorms can develop over the ocean when water temperatures exceed 80 degrees. Gabe Hauari, USA Today, 27 Oct. 2025 There’s a potential for more thunderstorms with a risk for hail Saturday afternoon in Central Texas. Harriet Ramos, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 25 Oct. 2025 Lightning can strike 10 miles away from a thunderstorm. Ca Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 25 Oct. 2025 The weather service said Boise could get up to a quarter-inch of rain, with some thunderstorms even possible Saturday night. Shannon Tyler, Idaho Statesman, 24 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for thunderstorm

Word History

First Known Use

1652, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of thunderstorm was in 1652

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Thunderstorm.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/thunderstorm. Accessed 31 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

thunderstorm

noun
thun·​der·​storm -ˌstȯ(ə)rm How to pronounce thunderstorm (audio)
: a storm accompanied by lightning and thunder
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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