What is the meaning of Tsunami?

Tsunami is a Japanese word meaning harbour wave, since these waves become destructive as they surge into harbours and coasts.

Calling it simply an oceanic wave misses the specific meaning of the term.

Coastal wave is a loose description and not the literal translation of the word.

Oceanic earthquake names a cause of tsunamis but is not what the word itself means.

Tsunamis are usually triggered by undersea earthquakes, landslides or volcanic eruptions.

In deep water they travel very fast yet low, then rise into towering waves near the shore.