Long, rolling waves that travel across ocean basins after being generated by distant storms. These smooth, regular wave patterns can travel thousands of miles from their source.
From Old English 'swellan' meaning 'to grow larger.' Originally described any increase in size, but by the 18th century sailors used it specifically for the rhythmic ocean waves that seemed to make the sea 'swell' up and down.
Ocean swells are like the heartbeat of the planet, carrying energy from storms across entire ocean basins! Surfers in California can ride swells generated by typhoons near Japan, making every wave a messenger from distant weather systems.
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