MLchartDataset catalogue

Wave pole

Term · Meteorology and atmospheric science · MLC-T-MET-010156

A simple, graduated staff or pole fixed vertically in the water to allow for direct visual measurement of wave height. An observer notes the highest and lowest water levels reached by successive waves against the calibrated markings on the pole to determine the wave characteristics. While a straightforward method, its use is limited to relatively calm conditions and locations where a fixed structure can be installed, such as near a pier or in shallow water.

Table 1. Record
IdentifierMLC-T-MET-010156
FieldMeteorology and atmospheric science
Synonymswave staff
See alsoWave recorder; Tide gauge
Record as JSON
{
  "id": "MLC-T-MET-010156",
  "term": "Wave pole",
  "field": "Meteorology and atmospheric science",
  "definition": "A simple, graduated staff or pole fixed vertically in the water to allow for direct visual measurement of wave height. An observer notes the highest and lowest water levels reached by successive waves against the calibrated markings on the pole to determine the wave characteristics. While a straightforward method, its use is limited to relatively calm conditions and locations where a fixed structure can be installed, such as near a pier or in shallow water.",
  "synonyms": [
    "wave staff"
  ],
  "see_also": [
    "wave recorder",
    "tide gauge"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/meteorology/wave-pole/"
}

Record 10,494 of 10,816 in Meteorology and atmospheric science terminology (MLC-0110). Request the full dataset.