Tsunami Meaning and Explanation

Meaning 1：tsunami (Tsunami)

Tsunami 🔊

/tsuːˈnɑːmi/

A huge wave in the sea caused by an earthquake under the water.

tsunami 🔊

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/tsuːˈnɑːmi/

A large ocean wave caused by underwater seismic activity, such as an earthquake or volcanic eruption.

📁 Category：Natural Geography 🔖 Level：Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

Derived from Japanese 'tsu' (harbor) and 'nami' (wave), meaning harbor wave.

💡 Mnemonic

Think 'tsu' (zoo) + 'nami' (wave) – a wave that visits the zoo? Or 'sue name' – wave suing your name.

📖 Example

The coastal town issued an immediate evacuation order after the powerful earthquake, fearing a devastating tsunami. 🔊 The coastal town issued an immediate evacuation order after the powerful earthquake, fearing a devastating tsunami.

🔗 Collocations

destructive tsunami – a tsunami that causes severe damage to coastal areas

tsunami warning system – a network of sensors and alerts designed to detect and warn about potential tsunamis

tsunami wave – the large, fast-moving wave generated by a tsunami

🔄 Synonyms

tidal wave (n.) – A large, destructive ocean wave, though often incorrectly used for tsunamis (true tidal waves are caused by tides)

seismic sea wave (n.) – A scientific term for a tsunami originating from seismic activity

🚫 Antonyms

calm sea (n.) – A flat, undisturbed ocean surface with no waves

still water (n.) – Water that is motionless, opposite of the powerful movement of a tsunami

📖 Cultural Story

Originates from Japanese fishermen who noticed huge waves after distant earthquakes only in harbors, not at sea. The term entered English in the 19th century.