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Cumulonimbus Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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cumulonimbus

[ˌkjuːmjʊləˈnɪmbəs ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

weather phenomenon

A cumulonimbus cloud is a dense towering vertical cloud associated with thunderstorms and atmospheric instability, forming from water vapor carried by powerful upward air currents.

Synonyms

anvil cloud, storm cloud, thundercloud.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
cumulonimbus

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.
thundercloud

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.
storm cloud

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.
anvil cloud

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.

Examples of usage

  • The cumulonimbus cloud brought heavy rain and lightning.
  • We could see the towering cumulonimbus clouds in the distance.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Meteorology

  • Cumulonimbus clouds can reach heights of over 12 kilometers (7 miles), touching the stratosphere.
  • They are associated with severe weather phenomena including thunderstorms, hail, and tornadoes.
  • These clouds often develop anvil-shaped tops, which indicate they are very strong and capable of producing extreme weather.

Science

  • Inside a cumulonimbus, violent updrafts can create supercooled water droplets that eventually freeze into hail.
  • They play a critical role in the water cycle by transporting moisture high into the atmosphere.

Pop Culture

  • In films, these clouds are often depicted as ominous, presaging dramatic weather events or bad omens.
  • The popular children’s book 'Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs' shows whimsical interpretations of various cloud types, including cumulonimbus.

Literature

  • Cumulonimbus clouds have been used in poetry to symbolize impending change or turmoil due to their stormy nature.
  • Many writers refer to these clouds to evoke feelings of awe or fear, showcasing nature's power.

Origin of 'cumulonimbus'

Main points about word origin

  • The name 'cumulonimbus' comes from Latin, where 'cumulus' means 'heaped up' and 'nimbus' means 'rain' or 'storm'.
  • First used in the late 19th century, the term helps meteorologists categorize clouds related to storms.

The term 'cumulonimbus' originates from Latin where 'cumulus' means heap or pile, and 'nimbus' means rainstorm. Cumulonimbus clouds are known for their vertical development and are often associated with severe weather such as thunderstorms, heavy rain, and lightning. These clouds play a crucial role in the Earth's water cycle and are a common sight in regions with unstable atmospheric conditions.