tide
UK: taɪd | US: taɪd
n. the periodic rise and fall of sea levels caused by gravitational forces (mainly the moon and sun)
n. a trend or tendency (e.g., "the tide of public opinion")
v. (archaic) to happen or occur (e.g., "time and tide wait for no man")
The word "tide" originally meant "time" or "season" in Old English, reflecting its connection to cyclical events. Over time, it specialized to refer specifically to the rhythmic rise and fall of the sea, aligning with the concept of predictable, time-bound natural phenomena. The silent "e" was appended later, a common Middle English scribal practice.
The tide was high at noon, flooding the coastal path.
She swam against the tide of popular opinion.
Fishermen know to check the tide tables before setting sail.
"Time and tide wait for no man," he reminded his procrastinating friend.
The documentary explored how tides influence marine ecosystems.