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Thundered Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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thundered

[ˈθʌndərd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

sound event

Thundered is the past tense of the verb 'thunder,' which refers to the loud sound produced by the rapid expansion of air heated by a lightning discharge. It can also imply a powerful or resonant noise, evoking feelings of awe or fear. In literature, thundered can be used metaphorically to describe an overwhelming event or a commanding presence. This term is often associated with stormy weather, but it can also serve as an evocative descriptor in various contexts.

Synonyms

boomed, clamored, roared.

Examples of usage

  • The storm thundered overhead, shaking the windows.
  • He thundered with anger, his voice booming in the room.
  • The horse thundered down the track, kicking up dirt behind it.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Thunder is produced by the rapid expansion of air heated by a lightning strike, which can reach temperatures five times hotter than the surface of the sun.
  • The speed of sound is roughly 343 meters per second (1,125 feet per second) in air, meaning that you see lightning before you hear the corresponding thunder.
  • Research shows that thunder can vary in pitch and duration, which are influenced by environmental factors like humidity and temperature.

Cultural Impact

  • In many cultures, thunder is often personified as a deity or a magical entity, reflecting humanity's fascination and fear of storms.
  • Literature often uses thunder as a dramatic device to signify turmoil or foreboding, enhancing the emotional weight of certain scenes.
  • In various folk traditions, people believe that thunder carries messages from the gods, emphasizing its importance in cultural storytelling.

Psychology

  • Sounds like thunder can evoke primal fear responses, often related to loud, unexpected noises that hearken back to survival instincts.
  • Studies suggest that individuals with anxiety disorders may experience heightened sensitivity to thunder and other loud sounds.
  • Thunderstorms are known to be associated with a sense of awe and wonderment, contributing to feelings of introspection or inspiration in some individuals.

Music

  • Thunder has been represented in music through powerful percussion, creating dramatic effects or evoking the feeling of a storm.
  • Many composers use the imagery of thunder in their pieces, such as Beethoven in 'The Pastoral Symphony', which portrays nature's chaos.
  • Certain genres of music, like heavy metal, often embrace thunderous sounds to convey power and intensity.

Origin of 'thundered'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originates from the Old English 'þunor', which was related to the ancient Germanic deity of thunder, Thor.
  • In many languages, similar words for thunder derive from ancient roots, highlighting its universal significance in human culture.
  • The 'th' sound in 'thunder' is a voiceless dental fricative, which adds a unique auditory quality to the word.

The word 'thunder' comes from the Old English 'þunor,' which is related to the Proto-Germanic '*thunraz' and the Proto-Indo-European root '*tuen-,' meaning 'to make a noise' or 'to sound.' It has cognates in several other languages, such as Old High German 'thundar,' Dutch 'donder,' and Scandinavian languages. Historically, thunder was often ascribed to the actions of deities in various cultures, representing their power and presence. Over time, the term evolved into various forms in the English language, with 'thundered' emerging as a common past tense form, particularly in dramatic or vivid descriptions of events that convey intensity or ferocity. The concept of thunder has also been essential in literature and folklore, symbolizing forces of nature and divine retribution.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,210, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.