thunderclap

/'θʌndəklæp/

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Explanation of the Word "Thunderclap"

Definition:
A "thunderclap" is a noun that can mean two things: 1. A sudden, loud noise made by thunder during a storm. It is often described as a single, sharp crash of thunder. 2. A shocking surprise, like unexpected news that catches you off guard, similar to how a loud noise can startle you.

Usage Instructions:

• When to use it for weather: Use "thunderclap" when describing a loud noise from thunder, especially if it is sudden and surprising.
• When to use it for surprise news: Use "thunderclap" to refer to news or information that is shocking or unexpected.

Examples:

1. Weather Usage:
   "The storm rolled in, and suddenly there was a thunderclap that made everyone jump."

2. Surprise News Usage:
   "The announcement of the sudden resignation was a thunderclap that left the entire office in shock."

Advanced Usage:

• In literature or more formal writing, you might encounter "thunderclap" used metaphorically to describe any shocking event or realization, not just limited to weather or news.

Word Variants:

• Thunderous (adjective): Describing something that is very loud, similar to thunder.

  • Example: "The thunderous applause filled the auditorium."

• Thunder (noun/verb): The sound produced during a storm (noun) or to make a loud noise (verb).

  • Example (noun): "The thunder was so loud, it shook the windows."
  • Example (verb): "The crowd thundered with excitement."

Different Meanings:

While "thunderclap" primarily refers to the sound or the shocking news, it can also imply a sudden realization or a moment of clarity that comes with surprising intensity.

Synonyms:

• For the weather meaning: Crash of thunder, peal of thunder.
• For the surprise meaning: Bombshell, shock, revelation, surprise.

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• "Like a bolt from the blue": This idiom means something happens unexpectedly, similar to how a thunderclap can come out of nowhere.

  • Example: "Her unexpected promotion came like a bolt from the blue."

• "Hit (someone) like a ton of bricks": This phrase means to shock someone greatly, similar to the impact of a thunderclap.

  • Example: "When he heard the news, it hit him like a ton of bricks."

Summary:

"Thunderclap" is a versatile word that can describe both a loud noise from a storm and a shocking piece of news.

Academic

Noun

1. a shocking surprise
   • news of the attack came like a bombshell
2. a single sharp crash of thunder

Synonyms

• bombshell
• thunderbolt