Cumulonimbus: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in scientific or meteorological discussions to describe a type of dense, towering cloud associated with thunderstorms and heavy rainfall.

• The meteorologist explained that the looming cumulonimbus indicated an approaching storm.
• Pilots must be cautious of cumulonimbus clouds due to severe turbulence and lightning.

Typically used in both everyday conversation and literature to describe clouds that bring thunder and lightning, emphasizing the dramatic and potentially dangerous aspects.

• Thunderclouds rolled in with a rumble, making the children rush inside.
• An ominous thundercloud loomed above, crackling with distant lightning.

Commonly used in everyday language to describe any dark, threatening clouds that suggest an upcoming storm.

• Dark storm clouds gathered overhead, making everyone hurry to find shelter.
• She felt uneasy as storm clouds moved in, foreshadowing a heavy downpour.

Used in both scientific and casual contexts to refer to the flat, top part of cumulonimbus clouds that spreads out like an anvil, often seen during the mature stage of a thunderstorm.

• As we watched the sky, an anvil cloud formed, signaling an intensifying thunderstorm.
• The anvil cloud stretched across the horizon, hinting at a possible severe weather event.