wind-driven waves

[wɪnd ˈdrɪvən weɪvz]
nounpl: wind-driven waves
ondas geradas pelo vento
1. Ocean or water surface waves generated and propelled by wind energy, characterized by their formation through direct wind stress on the water surface
The storm produced massive wind-driven waves that reached heights of 30 feet.
A tempestade produziu ondas geradas pelo vento que atingiram alturas de 9 metros.
2. Surface waves that continue to move and grow as long as wind continues to blow over them, typically found in areas of active wind generation
Sailors must navigate carefully through wind-driven waves during coastal storms.
Os marinheiros devem navegar cuidadosamente através de ondas geradas pelo vento durante tempestades costeiras.
This is primarily a technical and scientific term used in oceanography, meteorology, and maritime industries in both Brazil and the USA. It's essential vocabulary for sailors, meteorologists, and coastal engineers. In Brazilian beach culture and among surfers, informal versions like 'ondas de vento' are more commonly used in everyday conversation, while the full technical term is preferred in academic and professional settings.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
wind wavessea wavesforced wavesgravity waves
Antonyms / Antônimos
swelltidal wavestsunami

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
ondas geradas pelo vento
most common technical term used in oceanography and maritime contexts
Rio de Janeiro
ondas de vento
shorter colloquial form used by local fishermen and surfers
São Paulo
ondas causadas pelo vento
more descriptive technical variation
Portugal
ondas geradas pelo vento
same as Brazilian Portuguese, used in marine science terminology

Related Words

wave heightwave periodfetchwind stressocean dynamicswave energystorm surge

Related Idioms & Phrases

riding the wind-driven waves
catch the wind-driven waves
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