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rumble

Elementary (A2)

IPA: /ˈrʌm.bəl/

KK: /ˈrʌmbl/

intransitive verb
Definition

To make a deep, low sound that rolls or echoes, often associated with thunder or a distant noise.


Example

The thunder began to rumble in the distance as the storm approached.


Tense Forms

Past: rumbled

Past Participle: rumbled


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear that rumble in the distance?
Sloth B
Yeah, it sounded like thunder or something.
Sloth A
I wonder if a storm is coming soon; the sky looks pretty dark.
Sloth B
I hope it doesn't rumble too much — I have plans later!

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
growl
roar
grumble
Antonyms
whisper
silence
calm
noun
Definition

A deep, continuous sound that often resembles thunder or a low rumbling noise.


Example

The rumble of thunder could be heard in the distance before the storm arrived.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear that low rumble coming from the sky?
Sloth B
Yeah, it sounded like thunder was on the way.
Sloth A
I hope it doesn’t rain too hard; I wanted to go for a walk.
Sloth B
transitive verb
Definition

To make a deep, long sound that rolls or echoes, often used to describe noises like thunder or a distant engine.


Example

The thunder rumbled in the distance, signaling an approaching storm.


Tense Forms

Past: rumbled

Past Participle: rumbled


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear that rumble coming from the basement?
Sloth B
Yeah, it sounded like something heavy was moving around.
Sloth A
I think I might go check it out and see what's causing the rumble.
Root Explanation

Rumble → It originates from Middle English 'rumblen', which is imitative of the sound of a low, heavy noise. The word describes the act of making a deep, resonant sound, often associated with thunder or a distant noise.

Memory Tip

Imagine the sound of thunder rumbling in the distance — that's how you can remember that 'rumble' refers to a deep, resonant noise.

Visually Confused Words
grumble
drumble
crumble
umble
ruble
retumble
rejumble
rehumble
Is this page helpful?
Same here! A little rumble in the distance isn't too bad, though.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
growl
grumble
roar
Antonyms
silence
calm
peace
Sloth B
Good idea! I’ll come with you just in case.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
grumble
murmur
roar
Antonyms
whisper
silence
calm