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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Showers and thunderstorms will spread west into Texas overnight. — Gabe Hauari, USA Today, 2 Sep. 2026 Some of these showers could be more than just a light drizzle, with a few thunderstorms in the mix Wednesday afternoon and at elevation. — Sean MacAday, Sacbee.com, 2 Sep. 2026 The most likely scenario is warm and humid conditions with light showers and a low chance of monsoonal thunderstorms over the mountains and deserts. — Los Angeles Times, 2 Sep. 2026 However, there’s a chance that several of Spirit of Boise events may be cancelled for rain, wind and thunderstorms. — Hali Smith, Idaho Statesman, 2 Sep. 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

Rhymes for thunderstorm

See All Rhymes for thunderstorm

Browse Nearby Words

thunderstone
thunderstorm
thunderstorm cirrus
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Thunderstorm.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/thunderstorm. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

thunderstorm

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

More from Merriam-Webster on thunderstorm

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for thunderstorm

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about thunderstorm

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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