Rumble/ˈrʌmbl/ Definition 1 of 5Pro Tip 1/2Implying Power Use 'rumble' to describe sounds that suggest strength or size, often for vehicles or natural phenomena. The ferry rumbled as it approached the dock. Pro Tip 2/2Not Always Loud 'Rumble' can refer to a sound that is powerful but not necessarily loud or disruptive. A distant rumble of thunder was the storm's first warning.