wham
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /wæm/
KK: /wæm/
adverb
Definition
In a sudden and forceful manner, often used to describe a loud noise or impact.
Example
The door slammed shut, and wham! It startled everyone in the room.
Conversation
Did you hear that sound outside?
Yeah, it was so loud! What was it?
I think it was a car that stopped wham right in front of my house.
Wow, that must have been quite a shock!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
suddenly
brusquely
abruptly
Antonyms
gradually
slowly
softly
intransitive verb
Definition
To hit something very hard, often making a loud noise.
Example
The door slammed shut with a loud wham.
Tense Forms
Past: whammed
Past Participle: whammed
Conversation
Did you hear that loud noise outside just now?
Yeah, it sounded like someone just whammed something really hard!
I wonder what happened; it was so sudden and intense.
noun
Definition
A strong and loud impact or hit, often producing a noticeable sound.
Example
The door slammed shut with a loud wham that startled everyone in the room.
Conversation
Did you hear that wham from the game last night?
Yeah, it was so loud! I thought something broke.
I know! It really sounded like a solid hit.
transitive verb
Definition
To hit something with a loud noise or forceful impact.
Example
He whammed the door shut in frustration.
Tense Forms
Past: whammed
Past Participle: whammed
Conversation
Did you see how he whammed that ball during the game yesterday?
Yeah, it was incredible! I didn't think he could hit it that hard.
I know, right? It was like a cannon going off when he whammed it.
Root Explanation
This word originates from an imitative source, meaning a sudden impact or noise. It is often used to describe a loud bang or hit, mimicking the sound itself.
Memory Tip
Imagine a loud noise that suddenly hits you, like a 'wham' — this helps you remember that 'wham' refers to a sudden impact or bang.
Visually Confused Words
wheam
whalm
wha
ham