Nautical Term: Swell

Definition of Swell

Swell: A large, rolling wave that results from wind blowing over an expansive area of water. The swell continues to propagate outwards in all directions from the source of wind, even after the wind has subsided.

Example: Despite the calm sea, the fishermen were warned to return to port before the predicted swell arrived. The swell, originating from a storm far out at sea, was forecasted to reach immense heights and could potentially capsize even the largest and most sturdy of vessels.

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