thunderclap

noun

thun·​der·​clap ˈthən-dər-ˌklap How to pronounce thunderclap (audio)
1
: a clap of thunder
2
: something sharp, loud, or sudden like a clap of thunder

Examples of thunderclap in a Sentence

I was awakened by a thunderclap. awakened by the thunderclap of a large branch falling on the roof
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.
What prepared you for the thunderclap in the midst of the backbreaking toil? Greg Jackson, The New Yorker, 3 Nov. 2024 This type of headache, called a thunderclap headache, occurs quickly and without warning. Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 11 Sep. 2024 The news has been described as a potential 'thunderclap' in French politics, and has triggered outcry from more moderate and leftist camps. Frey Lindsay, Forbes, 10 Sep. 2024 On Friday, calf roping starts at noon and cowboy poetry and country music kick off at 7 p.m. But plan on getting an early start because the firing of the anvil kicks things off with a thunderclap at 5 a.m. Roger Naylor, The Arizona Republic, 26 June 2024 See all Example Sentences for thunderclap 

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of thunderclap was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near thunderclap

Cite this Entry

“Thunderclap.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/thunderclap. Accessed 29 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

thunderclap

noun
thun·​der·​clap -ˌklap How to pronounce thunderclap (audio)
1
: a clap of thunder
2
: something sharp, loud, or sudden like a clap of thunder

More from Merriam-Webster on thunderclap

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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