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Definition of thunderclap

thunderclap

/ˈθʌndərklæp/
thun · der · clap
Plural:thunderclaps
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thunderclap Lexical Profile

thunderclap Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A loud, sudden crash or peal of thunder.

Example

"A sudden thunderclap rattled the windowpanes just as the rain began to pour."

2

Something, such as an event or piece of news, that occurs suddenly and has a shocking or dramatic effect.

Example

"The announcement of the company's unexpected merger came like a thunderclap to the employees."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for thunderclap

• Nearby Words

thunder
thunderbird
thunderbolt
thunderclap
thundercloud
thunderhead
thundering

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in Middle English as a compound of 'thunder' (from Old English 'þunor') and 'clap' (from Old English 'clæppan', meaning to beat or throb), referring to a sharp, explosive peal of thunder.

Cite this Entry

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