tidal

adjective

tid·​al ˈtī-dᵊl How to pronounce tidal (audio)
1
a
: of, relating to, caused by, or having tides
tidal cycles
tidal erosion
b
: periodically rising and falling or flowing and ebbing
tidal waters
2
: dependent (as to the time of arrival or departure) upon the state of the tide
a tidal steamer
tidally
ˈtī-dᵊl-ē How to pronounce tidal (audio)
adverb

Examples of tidal in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Among the habitats Steinbach filmed are tidal floodplain forests, a landscape type that has largely disappeared in Europe. — Scott Roxborough, HollywoodReporter, 28 Aug. 2026 That distinction is crucial on Virgin Gorda, an island known for its granite boulders and tidal pools, crystal clear water, and flourishing plant and animal life. — Regan Stephens, Travel + Leisure, 27 Aug. 2026 City officials say work completed so far has already helped reduce tidal flooding. — Caroline Foreback, CBS News, 25 Aug. 2026 Water movement has carved patterns into the tidal flats, creating a transition from warm golden tones to cool teal waters. — Cecilia Rodriguez, Forbes.com, 23 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for tidal

Word History

First Known Use

1807, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of tidal was in 1807

Phrases Containing tidal

Rhymes for tidal

See All Rhymes for tidal

Browse Nearby Words

tid
tidal
tidal amplitude
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Cite this Entry

“Tidal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tidal. Accessed 2 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

tidal

adjective
tid·​al ˈtīd-ᵊl How to pronounce tidal (audio)
: of or relating to tides : rising and falling or flowing and ebbing at regular times

Medical Definition

tidal

adjective
tid·​al ˈtīd-ᵊl How to pronounce tidal (audio)
: of, relating to, or constituting tidal air
interference with the normal tidal exchange of the lungs—F. R. Mautz & R. M. Hosler
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