thunderbolt

[ˈθʌndərbəʊlt]

thunderbolt Definition

  • 1a flash of lightning with a simultaneous crash of thunder
  • 2a sudden and unexpected event that has a powerful effect

Using thunderbolt: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "thunderbolt" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The sky was filled with thunderbolts during the storm.

  • Example

    The announcement of the new policy was a thunderbolt for the employees.

  • Example

    The sudden resignation of the CEO was a thunderbolt for the company's board.

thunderbolt Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for thunderbolt

Phrases with thunderbolt

  • to suddenly and unexpectedly criticize or attack someone or something

    Example

    The president threw a thunderbolt at his opponent during the debate.

  • thunderbolt and lightning, very, very frightening

    a line from the song 'Bohemian Rhapsody' by Queen, used to describe a situation that is both exciting and scary

    Example

    The rollercoaster ride was like thunderbolt and lightning, very, very frightening.

  • a sudden and unexpected event that is shocking or surprising

    Example

    The news of her father's death was a thunderbolt from the blue.

Origins of thunderbolt

from Middle English 'thunder-bolt', from Old English 'þunorblāc'

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Summary: thunderbolt in Brief

A 'thunderbolt' [ˈθʌndərbəʊlt] is a flash of lightning accompanied by a loud noise, or a sudden and powerful event. It can refer to natural phenomena like 'The sky was filled with thunderbolts during the storm,' or to unexpected events like 'The announcement of the new policy was a thunderbolt for the employees.' The phrase 'throw a thunderbolt' means to suddenly criticize or attack someone or something.