Thunderclap Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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thunderclap

[ˈθʌndərˌklæp ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

loud noise

A sudden loud noise like a clap of thunder, typically caused by a lightning flash.

Synonyms

thunder peal, thunder roll, thunderbolt.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
thunderclap	Best used to describe a single, sudden, and loud sound of thunder, usually startling or unexpected. The sudden thunderclap made everyone in the room jump The storm began with a loud thunderclap
thunderbolt	Describes both the phenomenon of a lightning strike accompanied by a crash of thunder and can metaphorically mean something sudden and shocking. The tree was struck by a thunderbolt, splitting it in half The news came like a thunderbolt, leaving everyone in shock
thunder peal	Appropriate for describing a series of loud, resonant sounds of thunder, often continuing over a short period. The thunder peal resonated across the valley, echoing off the mountains They sat in silence, listening to the thunder peal
thunder roll	Used to describe a continuous, rumbling sound of thunder that can be heard rolling across the sky. The thunder rolled ominously, announcing the approaching storm We could hear the thunder roll in the distance

Examples of usage

The thunderclap startled everyone in the room.
The thunderclap was so loud it shook the windows.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Nature

Thunder is caused by the rapid expansion of air heated by lightning, resulting in shock waves that create the sound we hear.
The distance between the lightning strike and the observer can be estimated by counting seconds between seeing the flash and hearing the thunderclap, with every 5 seconds being roughly one mile away.

Cultural References

In various mythologies, thunderclaps are often associated with divine messages or the presence of gods, such as Zeus in Greek mythology.
Thunderclap has been used in literature and film to signify dramatic moments or transformations, like a hero's awakening.

Science

Thunder travels at the speed of sound, which is approximately 343 meters per second (1,125 feet per second) in air.
The spectrum of sounds during a thunderclap varies based on environmental factors like humidity and temperature.

Psychology

The sound of thunderclap can trigger a fight-or-flight response in some individuals, leading to fear or anxiety, especially in children.
Studies suggest that the association of thunder with storms can create lasting effects on fearfulness in early childhood.

Origin of 'thunderclap'

Main points about word origin

The word combines 'thunder,' which comes from Old English 'þunor,' and 'clap,' indicating a sharp sound.
English speakers in the 14th century used 'thunderclap' literally to describe the sound of thunder.

The word 'thunderclap' originated from the combination of 'thunder' and 'clap', reflecting the sudden and sharp nature of the sound. The term has been used for centuries to describe the loud noise associated with thunderstorms, evoking a sense of power and intensity. Throughout history, the concept of thunderclaps has been linked to various mythologies and cultural beliefs, symbolizing forces of nature and divine power.