Definition

A type of cloud that is tall and dense, often associated with thunderstorms and heavy rain, having a shape that can resemble an anvil.

Example

The sky was filled with dark cumulonimbus clouds, signaling an approaching storm.

Conversation

Did you see those clouds forming earlier?

Yeah, they look like a big cumulonimbus cloud!

I heard those can bring heavy rain and thunderstorms.

Exactly! We should keep an eye on the weather today.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cumulonimbus is formed from "cumulus" (from Latin, meaning heap or pile) and "nimbus" (from Latin, meaning rain or storm). The word describes a type of cloud that appears as a towering heap and is associated with thunderstorms and heavy rain.

Memory Tip

Imagine a cloud that looks like a 'heap' ('cumulus') and brings 'rain' ('nimbus') — that's what a cumulonimbus cloud is.

Visually Confused Words