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.
Origin of tidal wave
First recorded in 1820–30
Words nearby tidal wave
tidal force,
tidal light,
tidal pool,
tidal power,
tidal volume,
tidal wave,
tidbit,
tiddler,
tiddly,
tiddlywink,
tiddlywinks
Example sentences from the Web for tidal wave
British Dictionary definitions for tidal wave
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
Scientific definitions for tidal wave
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.
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.