thunderstorm

noun

thun·​der·​storm ˈthən-dər-ˌstȯrm How to pronounce thunderstorm (audio)
: 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.
Here are tips on how to stay safe during a thunderstorm: To minimize risk of being struck by lightning, when going outside, have a plan to get to a safer place. Nc Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 14 July 2025 This summer also has been notable for its lack of monsoonal moisture — weather that can cause uncomfortably high humidity and trigger thunderstorms in the local mountains. Gary Robbins, San Diego Union-Tribune, 14 July 2025 What To Know The NHC said on Monday a low-pressure system positioned off the northern Florida Atlantic coast was generating disorganized showers and thunderstorms over parts of Florida, the northwestern Bahamas, and nearby Atlantic waters. Joe Edwards, MSNBC Newsweek, 14 July 2025 On Friday, July 11, a strong thunderstorm system moved across southern Wisconsin, causing flooding with up to three inches of rain in the region. Hope Karnopp, jsonline.com, 13 July 2025 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Thunderstorm.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/thunderstorm. Accessed 19 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

thunderstorm

noun
thun·​der·​storm -ˌstȯ(ə)rm How to pronounce thunderstorm (audio)
: a storm accompanied by lightning and thunder
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!