Crossword Genius

Thunderous applause? (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

clap

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'applause?' is the definition.
(thesaurus)

I cannot understand how the remainder of the clue works.

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(Other definitions for clap that I've seen before include "Pat" , "Sudden loud noise (of thunder?)" , "express approval" , "Make sound of applause" , "Audibly show approval" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard and The Globe and Mail.
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