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Definition of rumbling

rumbling

/ˈrʌm.blɪŋ/
rum · bling
Adverb:rumblingly
•
Plural:rumblings
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rumbling Lexical Profile

rumbling Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Making or characterized by a continuous deep, resonant sound.

Example

"The distant, rumbling thunder signaled that a summer storm was rapidly approaching the valley."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• noun

1

A continuous deep, resonant sound, such as that made by distant thunder, heavy machinery, or a hungry stomach.

Example

"The low rumbling of freight trains could be heard across the town late at night."

2

An early sign or expression of burgeoning discontent, dissatisfaction, or impending change (usually used in the plural).

Example

"There were already rumblings of discontent among the faculty regarding the proposed budget cuts."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for rumbling

• Nearby Words

rum
rumba
rumble
rumbling
rumblings
rumbly
rumex

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed from the verb 'rumble' (Middle English 'romblen', likely of imitative origin akin to Middle Dutch 'rommelen') plus the suffix '-ing'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Rumbling. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/rumbling
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