Definition

Noun: 1. A water current caused by the tidal rise and fall of the sea: A 'tidal stream' is a horizontal movement of water, primarily in coastal areas, estuaries, and straits, generated by the gravitational pull of the moon and sun. It is the flowing water itself, distinct from the vertical change in water level (the tide). 2. A stream or river where tidal effects are significant: This refers to a watercourse, often a river, where the influence of the ocean tide is strong enough to reverse the direction of the current or cause noticeable changes in water level far inland from the river's mouth.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The boat was carried quickly by the strong tidal stream.
  • Sailing through the narrow channel requires careful attention to the tidal stream charts.
  • The Thames is a famous tidal stream in London.

Advanced Usage

• "Tidal stream" vs. "Tide": While related, 'tidal stream' specifically refers to the horizontal current of water, whereas 'tide' more commonly refers to the vertical rise and fall of sea level.
• In navigation and marine contexts, 'tidal stream' is a critical factor for planning voyages, as its direction and speed change periodically.

Variants and Related Words

• Tidal current: A direct synonym for 'tidal stream', often used interchangeably in technical and navigational contexts.
• Tidal river: A river affected by tides.
• Tidal bore: A distinct phenomenon where the leading edge of an incoming tide forms a wave that travels up a river or narrow bay against the direction of the current.

Synonyms

• Tidal current
• Tide race (specifically a very fast, turbulent tidal stream)

Related Phrases

• Tidal stream atlas: A set of charts or diagrams showing the direction and speed of tidal streams for a specific area at different states of the tide.
• Tidal stream energy: Electrical power generated by turbines placed in tidal streams, harnessing the kinetic energy of the moving water.

Noun

1. a stream in which the effects of the tide extend far upstream