Definition

A large, dark cloud that can produce thunder and lightning, often associated with storms.

Example

The sky was filled with thunderclouds, signaling an approaching storm.

Conversation

Look at those dark clouds; they really look like a big thundercloud.

Yeah, I hope it doesn't start pouring while we're out here.

I know, right? A thundercloud can be pretty scary sometimes.

Definitely! Let's find some shelter just in case.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Thundercloud → It is formed from "thunder" (from Old English *þunor*, meaning a loud noise or rumble) and "cloud" (from Old English *clud*, meaning a mass of rock or hill, later referring to a visible mass of condensed water vapor in the atmosphere). The word "thundercloud" refers to a cloud that produces thunder, typically associated with storms.

Memory Tip

Imagine a loud noise ('thunder') coming from a mass of water vapor ('cloud') in the sky — that's why a thundercloud is a cloud that makes thunder.

Visually Confused Words