word
cumulonimbus
kyoo-myoo-loh-NIM-bus
ˌkjuːmjʊloʊˈnɪmbəsListen
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Syllable breakdown
cumulonimbus
Dictionary meaning
A type of cloud characterized by its towering vertical extent; the classic 'anvil' thunderstorm cloud capable of producing heavy rain, lightning, and hail.
History and origin
Latin — 'cumulus' (heap) + 'nimbus' (rain cloud).
Examples
- The forecaster pointed to the cumulonimbus cloud building to the west as a sign of incoming severe weather.
Common mispronunciations
kyoo-myoo-LOH-nim-busKYOO-myoo-loh-nim-bus
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