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Definition of tsunami

tsunami

/tsuːˈnɑːmi/
tsu · na · mi
Plural:tsunamis
•
Adjective:tsunamic
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tsunami Lexical Profile

tsunami Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A series of extremely long and high ocean waves caused by an underwater earthquake, volcanic eruption, or landslide.

Example

"Coastal residents evacuated to higher ground immediately after the meteorological agency issued a tsunami warning."

2

An overwhelming, sudden arrival or outpouring of something.

Example

"The customer service department was unprepared for the tsunami of complaints that followed the software outage."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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Word Nuance & Usage

Although informally called a 'tidal wave,' oceanographers avoid the term because tsunamis are generated by seismic activity rather than gravitational tides.

• Rhymes for tsunami

• Nearby Words

tshuapa
tsk
tsuga
tsunami
tuatara
tub
tuba

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 19th century from Japanese 'tsunami', a compound of 'tsu' (harbor) and 'nami' (wave).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Tsunami. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/tsunami
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