TIDAL WAVE Definition & Meaning

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tidal wave

noun

(not in technical use) a large, destructive ocean wave, produced by a seaquake, hurricane, or strong wind. Compare tsunami.
either of the two great wavelike swellings of the ocean surface that move around the earth on opposite sides and give rise to tide, caused by the attraction of the moon and sun.
any widespread or powerful movement, opinion, or tendency:
a tidal wave of public indignation.

tidal wave

noun

a name (not accepted in technical usage) for tsunami
an unusually large incoming wave, often caused by high winds and spring tides
a forceful and widespread movement in public opinion, action, etc

tidal wave

Either of the two swells or crests of surface ocean water created by the gravitational effects of the Moon and Sun and circling the globe on opposite sides to create the daily periods of high and low tides.
Also called tidal bulge
An unusual rise in the level of water along a seacoast, as from a storm or a combination of wind and tide.
Also called storm surge
A tsunami.

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�y��vlog History and Origins

Origin of tidal wave¹

First recorded in 1820–30

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Usage

The term tidal wave is used in everyday speech to refer to a gigantic and enormously destructive wave caused by an underwater earthquake or volcanic eruption—what scientists would properly call a tsunami. When scientists use the word tidal wave, they normally are referring to an unusually large wave or bulge of water that sometimes occurs around a high tide. These tidal waves are certainly big and powerful, but they are tiny in comparison with tsunamis.

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Compare Meanings

How does tidal wave compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

But after a minute or two, masked assailants sprinted out from the shadows of the parking lot and other backstage areas, a tidal wave of attackers dressed in red quickly surrounding Drakeo and his friends.

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The box office tidal wave of “Moana 2” lifted Walt Disney Co.’s results for the fiscal first quarter, even as its reliable theme park sector was hampered by dual hurricanes in Florida.

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In particular, she described the "unbelievable tidal wave of Islamophobia" in the UK, which she said was made more difficult to tackle due to the ongoing policy of government non-engagement.

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Populist figures, already emboldened by a tidal wave of anti-establishment electoral sentiment, have found a congenial reception in Trump’s orbit.

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Then, just like a tidal wave, it went everywhere.

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