Rumble Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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rumble

[ˈrʌmbəl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

sound

Make a continuous deep, resonant sound like distant thunder.

Synonyms

growl, grumble, roar.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
rumble

Use this word to describe a low, continuous sound. Often used for distant thunder, or the sound of traffic. It can also describe the sound of an empty stomach.

  • The distant rumble of thunder made me uneasy.
  • I could hear the rumble of traffic from my apartment.
  • His stomach started to rumble loudly during the meeting.
grumble

This word is often used to describe a low, muttered complaint or expression of dissatisfaction. It usually has a negative connotation and implies that someone is unhappy about something but not openly aggressive.

  • She always grumbles about the long commute to work.
  • The workers grumbled under their breath as they were given more tasks.
growl

This word is typically used to describe a low, menacing sound made by animals, especially dogs, when they are angry or warning someone. It can also be used metaphorically for humans expressing anger quietly.

  • The dog began to growl when the stranger approached.
  • He growled in frustration when his computer crashed.
roar

Use this word to describe a loud, deep sound, typically made by lions or other large animals. It can also be used to describe a very loud human voice, especially when shouting or cheering.

  • The lion's roar echoed through the jungle.
  • The crowd roared with excitement when their team scored.

Examples of usage

  • The thunder rumbled in the distance.
  • The volcano rumbled ominously before erupting.
Context #2 | Noun

noise

A continuous deep, resonant sound like distant thunder.

Synonyms

growl, grumble, roar.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
rumble

Same definition as earlier, indicating a low continuous sound.

  • The city was alive with the rumble of traffic.
  • A low rumble could be heard through the walls.
roar

Describes a very loud, powerful sound that can come from a lion, an engine, or a crowd of people. This word can convey power, excitement, or anger, depending on the context.

  • The lion let out a deafening roar.
  • The crowd roared with excitement.
growl

Often used to describe the sound an animal (like a dog) makes when it's angry or threatened. It can also be used to describe a person's low, rough voice when they are upset or irritated.

  • The dog growled at the stranger.
  • He growled in irritation when he was interrupted.
grumble

Used when someone is complaining in a low, muttering voice. This word carries a mildly negative connotation as it indicates dissatisfaction or discontent.

  • She grumbled about having to work late.
  • He was always grumbling about the weather.

Examples of usage

  • The rumble of the train could be heard in the distance.
  • The rumble of the engines filled the room.

Translations

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Origin of 'rumble'

The word 'rumble' originates from Middle English, probably imitative of a low, continuous sound. It has been used to describe deep, resonant sounds for centuries, often associated with thunder or the movement of large objects.


Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,149, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.