Definition

Noun: A broad and deep undulation of the ocean; a large, powerful, and often long-lasting ocean wave or series of waves, typically caused by distant storms or strong winds.

Usage

The term "heavy swell" is used to describe the condition of the sea when it is characterized by large, rolling waves that are not necessarily breaking. It often implies a powerful, rhythmic movement of the water that can affect navigation and coastal conditions.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The ship struggled to maintain its course in the heavy swell.
  • Surfers waited patiently for the heavy swell to arrive, promising excellent waves.
  • The forecast warned of a heavy swell developing in the open ocean, moving towards the coast.

Advanced Usage

• "A heavy swell is running": A nautical phrase indicating that large, powerful waves are present and moving across the sea's surface.
  • The captain decided to delay departure because a heavy swell was running.

Variants and Related Words

• Ground swell (n): A heavy swell that has traveled a long distance from its origin, often characterized by long, smooth waves.
  • The ground swell from the southern ocean provided perfect conditions for longboard surfing.

Synonyms

• Rolling sea: A sea state with large, undulating waves.
• Heavy sea: A general term for rough ocean conditions with large waves.

Related Phrases

• Swell waves: The specific type of long-period waves that constitute a swell, as opposed to locally generated wind waves.
  • The heavy swell consisted of powerful swell waves over 15 feet high.

Noun

1. a broad and deep undulation of the ocean