Definition of tide
(Entry 1 of 3)
1a(1)
: the alternate rising and falling of the surface of the ocean and of water bodies (such as gulfs and bays) connected with the ocean that occurs usually twice a day and is the result of differing gravitational forces exerted at different parts of the earth by another body (such as the moon or sun)
(2)
: a less marked rising and falling of an inland body of water
(3)
: a periodic movement in the earth's crust caused by the same forces that produce ocean tides
(4)
: a periodic distortion on one celestial body caused by the gravitational attraction of another
(5)
: one of the periodic movements of the atmosphere resembling those of the ocean and produced by gravitation or diurnal temperature changes
2a
: something that fluctuates like the tides of the sea
the tide of public opinion
b
: a large and increasing quantity or volume
a tide of opportunists a swelling tide of criticism
4a
: a fit or opportune time : opportunity
b
: an ecclesiastical anniversary or festival
also
: its season
—usually used in combination Eastertide
tide
verb (1)
tided; tiding
Definition of tide (Entry 2 of 3)
: to flow as or in a tide : surge
: to cause to float with or as if with the tide
tide
verb (2)
tided; tiding
Definition of tide (Entry 3 of 3)
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Merriam-Webster unabridged
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Time Traveler for tide
The first known use of tide was before the 12th century
See more words from the same century