This is the 1877th most frequent German word.
tonnen
"Tonnen" in English means "tons" or "barrels," depending on the context.
Here, 'Tonnen' is used as a measure of weight (metric ton), referring to the capacity of a cargo ship.
Der Frachter kann bis zu 20 Tonnen Fracht transportieren.
The freighter can transport up to 20 tons of cargo.
In this sentence, 'tonnenweise' is used as an adverb to express an abundance or a large amount metaphorically, modifying the noun 'Möglichkeiten' (possibilities).
Es gibt tonnenweise Möglichkeiten, kreativ zu sein.
There are tons of ways to be creative.
Here, 'tonnenförmige' is an adjective derived from 'Tonne', describing the distinctive shape of the houses resembling barrels.