Thunder Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฉ๏ธ
thunder
[ฮธสndษr ]
Definition
natural phenomenon
Thunder is the sound that is produced by the rapid expansion of air heated by a lightning discharge. This sound can range from a low rumble to an intense crack, depending on the distance from the observer and the conditions of the surrounding atmosphere. Thunder is often associated with thunderstorms but can also occur during volcanic eruptions. It is a natural auditory phenomenon that can evoke various emotional responses in people, often associated with fear or awe.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The thunder rolled through the valley.
- We watched the storm clouds gather as the thunder rumbled ominously.
- She jumped at the sound of thunder during the night.
- Thunder can often be heard before the rain begins.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Science
- Thunder is created by the rapid expansion of air around a lightning bolt, which heats up quickly and causes a shock wave.
- The speed of sound is usually around 343 meters per second, which means you see lightning before you hear the thunder.
Cultural Significance
- Many cultures personify thunder as a god or spirit, such as Thor in Norse mythology, who is known as the god of thunder.
- In some indigenous cultures, thunder is seen as a sign of the spirits being active or communicating with the living.
Literature
- Thunder often symbolizes power, fear, or the presence of divine forces in literature, highlighting its emotional impact on characters.
- In Shakespeare's plays, thunder is used to signify chaos or conflict, often foreshadowing significant events.
Pop Culture
- The word 'thunder' appears in numerous song titles and lyrics, often linked with themes of strength, passion, or foreboding.
- Famous songs that include 'thunder' highlight the feelings of energy and excitement associated with storms.
Origin of 'thunder'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Old English 'รพunor', which is derived from the Proto-Germanic word 'thunraz', meaning 'to sound'.
- In many languages, the word for thunder is related to noise or sounding, emphasizing its loud and frightening nature.
The word 'thunder' originates from Old English 'thunor,' which was derived from the Proto-Germanic word '*thunraz.' This word is also the ancestor of similar terms in other Germanic languages, such as 'donner' in German and 'donn' in Old Norse. The etymological root is believed to be linked to the Proto-Indo-European root '*teng-', which means 'to strike' or 'to thump.' This connection reflects the powerful auditory experience associated with thunder, which is essentially the sound of striking atmospheric conditions. Historically, thunder has been personified in various cultures, often associated with gods or supernatural entities, signifying its impact on human emotions and beliefs regarding nature.