thunderstorm

noun

thun·​der·​storm ˈthən-dər-ˌstȯrm How to pronounce thunderstorm (audio)
Synonyms of thunderstormnext
: a storm accompanied by lightning and thunder

Examples of thunderstorm in a Sentence

There are thunderstorms in the forecast. The weather service has issued a severe thunderstorm warning.
Recent Examples on the Web
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The foul weather in the Great Plains comes after the region was hit by severe thunderstorms and damaging winds on Wednesday. Kenton Gewecke, ABC News, 4 June 2026 Sunday brings a chance for showers and thunderstorms. Vanessa McCray, AJC.com, 4 June 2026 The National Weather Service says thunderstorms are expected to increase in coverage and intensity across the Great Lakes area on Saturday afternoon. Vytas Reid, CBS News, 4 June 2026 That will help fuel showers and thunderstorms through Friday. Kansas City Star, 4 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for thunderstorm

Word History

First Known Use

1652, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of thunderstorm was in 1652

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Cite this Entry

“Thunderstorm.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/thunderstorm. Accessed 9 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

thunderstorm

noun
thun·​der·​storm -ˌstȯ(ə)rm How to pronounce thunderstorm (audio)
: a storm accompanied by lightning and thunder
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