On Mon, 03 Jan 2005 13:21:24 +0100, wrote:
When did everybody start calling a tidal wave a tsunami and why?

Why not use the Japanese word for earthquake too?

AIUI, the term 'tidal wave' is strictly incorrect, as the wave has
nothing to do with tides, unlike some other waves such as the Severn
Bore. Tsunami is the 'correct' term (even though we all know what a
tidal wave is). It apparently means 'harbour wave', which sounds just
as inappropriate.


--
Chris

E-mail: christopher[dot]hogg[at]virgin[dot]net