Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Making a continuous, deep, resonant sound: Describes a sound that is low-pitched, heavy, and often prolonged, like distant thunder or large machinery.
2. Noun:
   • A continuous deep, resonant sound: A low, rolling, often indistinct noise that continues for a period of time.

Examples of Usage

• Adjective:
  • We could hear a rumbling noise coming from the subway beneath the street.
  • The rumbling engine of the truck shook the windows.
• Noun:
  • The rumbling of the volcano warned of an imminent eruption.
  • A deep rumbling echoed through the canyon.

Advanced Usage

• Figurative Use (Noun): Can refer to a widespread, often suppressed expression of discontent or rumor.
  • There were rumblings of dissatisfaction among the staff about the new policy.
• Onomatopoeia: The word itself imitates the low, rolling sound it describes.

Variants and Related Words

• Rumble (verb): To make a continuous, deep, resonant sound.
  • Thunder rumbled in the distance.
• Rumble (noun): A single instance of a deep, resonant sound; also a slang term for a gang fight.
  • A loud rumble of thunder.
• Grumble (verb/noun): To complain in a low, muttering way; a complaint. (Similar sound but different meaning).

Synonyms

• Adjective: Grumbling, rolling, booming, thundering, reverberating.
• Noun: Grumble, roar, boom, thunder, reverberation.

Related Idioms or Phrases

• Rumblings of...: Indications or early signs of something, often trouble or discontent.
  • There are rumblings of a political scandal.

Adjective

1. continuous full and low-pitched throbbing sound
   • the rumbling rolling sound of thunder

Noun

1. a loud low dull continuous noise
   • they heard the rumbling of thunder