thunderclap

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   a single sudden, loud crash of thunder, especially from a nearby lightning strike

   A thunderclap shook the windows and sent everyone running indoors.

2. 2
   noun

   a sudden event or announcement that causes great shock or surprise

   News of the resignation came as a thunderclap to the cabinet.

A compound of thunder + clap, using clap in its sense of a sudden sharp sound. The figurative sense compares a shocking event or announcement to an abrupt crash of thunder.

Topics

External links

• Google Images
• Cambridge Dictionary
• Wiktionary