Breaker
Term · Meteorology and atmospheric science · MLC-T-MET-004019
A surface ocean wave that collapses or 'breaks' as it approaches a coastline or shallow water, typically due to the wave's height exceeding the water depth. As the wave crest becomes unstable, it topples forward, releasing its energy as foam and turbulence. Breakers are classified into types such as spilling, plunging, and surging, depending on the slope of the seabed and wave characteristics.
Waves that break, displaying white water. Depends on wave steepness and bottom bathymetry.
| Identifier | MLC-T-MET-004019 |
|---|---|
| Field | Meteorology and atmospheric science |
| References | NWS Glossary |
Record as JSON
{
"id": "MLC-T-MET-004019",
"term": "Breaker",
"field": "Meteorology and atmospheric science",
"definitions": [
"A surface ocean wave that collapses or 'breaks' as it approaches a coastline or shallow water, typically due to the wave's height exceeding the water depth. As the wave crest becomes unstable, it topples forward, releasing its energy as foam and turbulence. Breakers are classified into types such as spilling, plunging, and surging, depending on the slope of the seabed and wave characteristics.",
"Waves that break, displaying white water. Depends on wave steepness and bottom bathymetry."
],
"references": [
"NWS Glossary"
],
"url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/meteorology/breaker/"
}
Record 1,278 of 10,816 in Meteorology and atmospheric science terminology (MLC-0110). Request the full dataset.