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Rumbling Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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rumbling

[ˈrʌmb(ə)lɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

sound

To make a continuous deep, resonant sound, such as thunder or the sound of a stomach.

Synonyms

growl, grumble, roar.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
rumbling

Used to describe a low, continuous sound, often associated with thunderstorms, machinery, or distant noise.

  • 1
  • The rumbling of thunder could be heard in the distance
  • 2
  • She felt a rumbling in her stomach, indicating she was hungry
grumble

Used to indicate a low and often prolonged complaining or muttering sound, usually expressing dissatisfaction. This has a negative connotation.

  • 1
  • She began to grumble about the long queue
  • 2
  • The workers grumbled about the extra hours they had to work
growl

Typically refers to a low, guttural sound made by animals, especially dogs, to show aggression or displeasure. It can also describe a human making a similar sound when angry.

  • 1
  • The dog started to growl when the stranger approached
  • 2
  • He growled in frustration when he couldn't open the jar
roar

Describes a very loud, deep sound, often made by lions or powerful machines. It can also refer to a loud expression of emotion, like laughter or cheering.

  • 1
  • The lion let out a deafening roar
  • 2
  • The crowd roared with excitement when the team scored

Examples of usage

  • The thunder was rumbling in the distance.
  • Her stomach started rumbling with hunger.
Context #2 | Noun

noise

A continuous deep, resonant sound.

Synonyms

grumble, roar, rumble.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
rumbling

use this to describe a low, continuous, and often distant sound that can be related to thunder, stomach noises, or machinery.

  • I could hear the rumbling of thunder in the distance
  • My stomach is rumbling because I'm hungry
rumble

use this to describe a low, continuous sound that can be associated with distant thunder, trains, or heavy machinery. It often conveys a sense of something powerful or large moving.

  • A low rumble indicated an approaching storm
  • The train rumbled down the tracks
grumble

use this to describe a low, muttered complaint or discontented sound, often related to people voicing unhappiness under their breath. It's generally used in a negative or mildly annoyed manner.

  • She began to grumble about the unfairness of the situation
  • He grumbled something under his breath as he left the room
roar

use this to describe a loud, full, and powerful sound. It can be related to animals like lions, crowds of people, engines, or even nature like waterfalls.

  • The lion's roar could be heard from miles away
  • The crowd let out a roar of applause
  • The waterfall roared as the water crashed down

Examples of usage

  • The rumbling of the train could be heard in the distance.
  • The rumbling of the waterfall was deafening.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In geology, a rumbling noise can indicate shifting tectonic plates, often preceding an earthquake.
  • The rumble of thunder occurs when lightning heats the air rapidly, creating sound waves.
  • Animals, especially large ones like elephants, can communicate through deep rumbling sounds that travel long distances.

Literature

  • Rumbling is often used in literature to describe impending danger, such as storms or battles approaching.
  • In children's stories, rumbling often accompanies scenes of excitement or mischief, enhancing the narrative tension.
  • Authors like J.R.R. Tolkien used rumbling sounds to create atmosphere, making readers feel the weight of the moment.

Pop Culture

  • In classic cartoons, characters often have rumbling tummies to humorously show they are hungry.
  • The term 'rumble' has been popularized in film and music to signify conflict or a showdown, especially in street culture.
  • Rumbling sounds are frequently featured in movie soundtracks to build suspense before a climactic moment.

Psychology

  • Rumbling sounds can trigger emotions and memories, often reminding people of past experiences like storms or family gatherings.
  • In therapy, pleasant rumbling sounds may be used to create a calming atmosphere, reducing anxiety.
  • Research shows that certain low-frequency sounds can affect our perception of time and space, leading to feelings of unease or unpredictability.

Origin of 'rumbling'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old English 'romblian', meaning to make a low, heavy sound.
  • Related words include 'rumble' and 'rumor', both of which convey a sense of noise or disturbance.
  • In some dialects, 'rumbling' also refers to the sound of something rolling or moving heavily.

The word 'rumbling' originated from Middle English 'romblen', which is of imitative origin, reflecting the sound itself. Over time, the word evolved to its current form and usage, primarily associated with deep, continuous sounds like thunder or the rumbling of a stomach.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,965, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.