Tsunami: meaning, definitions and examples

natural disaster

A tsunami is a series of ocean waves with very long wavelengths (typically hundreds of kilometers) caused by large-scale disturbances of the ocean, such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, underwater landslides, or meteorite impacts. These waves can travel across entire ocean basins and cause devastating damage when they reach coastal areas.

seismic sea wave, tidal wave.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
tsunami	Commonly used in both scientific and casual contexts to describe a large and powerful sea wave usually caused by an underwater earthquake or volcanic eruption. The tsunami caused widespread devastation along the coast. Warnings were issued after a tsunami was detected in the ocean.
tidal wave	Often misused in casual conversation to describe a tsunami, but technically refers to waves caused by the gravitational interactions between the Earth, moon, and sun. Not commonly used in scientific contexts to describe tsunamis. Many people mistakenly call tsunamis tidal waves. A tidal wave occurs due to the gravitational pull of the moon.
seismic sea wave	Predominantly used in scientific and technical contexts to specifically refer to sea waves generated by seismic activity such as underwater earthquakes. Research shows that seismic sea waves can travel across entire ocean basins. Scientists are studying the impact of seismic sea waves on coastal regions.

Examples of usage

• Thousands of people were killed by the tsunami that struck Southeast Asia in 2004.

• The tsunami warning system helped to evacuate coastal residents before the waves hit.

• The force of a tsunami can result in widespread destruction of buildings and infrastructure.

• The tsunami waves can flood coastal regions, causing extensive damage to property.

• In the event of a tsunami, it is important to move to higher ground to avoid the oncoming waves.