tidal wave
noun/ˈtaɪdəlweɪv/
1
A large and sudden rise and fall in the tide.
2
Proscribed A large, sudden, and disastrous wave of water caused by a tremendous disturbance in the ocean; a tsunami. (See Usage notes below.)
- The last tidal wave here killed twenty and left thousands homeless.
3
Proscribed A large, sudden inundation of water from the storm surge, or waves of that surge; a sudden surge of river water.
- During the day conditions worsened quickly—for example, a 2-6-0 on the Uckfield line suddenly encountered flood water high enough to enter its ashpan and extinguish its fire—until lock gates up-river at Barcombe gave way and a tidal wave rolled down the valley meeting head-on a spring tide rolling up from the coast.1961 January, “Talking of Trains: Flooding at Lewes”, in Trains Illustrated, page 5:
4
Figuratively A sudden and powerful surge.
- As the doors opened, a tidal wave of people flooded into the room.
- I was overcome by a tidal wave of emotions.
1 more example
- But this is no stream, folks. This will be a tidal wave that can swamp our democracy.2003, Michael Moore, chapter 3, in Dude, Where’s My Country:
5
Archaic A crest of ocean water; a wave.
6
Geography, Natural sciences, Oceanography A crest of ocean water resulting from tidal forces.
- Related terms
- tidal bore, tidal surge, earthquake, flood