heavy swell

• Terme marin désignant une forte houle, c'est-à-dire une agitation de la mer avec de longues vagues amples et puissantes, souvent causée par des vents ou des tempêtes lointains, pouvant être dangereuse pour les petits navires.

A nautical term describing a large, powerful wave motion in the open sea, often caused by distant winds or storms, characterized by long, high waves that can be dangerous for small vessels.

1. Large ocean wavesB2formal

   A series of large, powerful waves in the sea, often caused by distant weather systems.

   forte houle

   • The sailors were warned about a heavy swell approaching the coast.
   • A heavy swell made the boat ride very uncomfortable.
   • Surfers look for a heavy swell to get the best waves.

2. Feeling of importance or intensityC1informal

   A figurative expression describing a strong, overwhelming feeling or atmosphere.

   Poids écrasant d'une émotion

   • There was a heavy swell of emotion in the room after the speech.
   • A heavy swell of pride filled his chest as he accepted the award.
   • The crowd felt a heavy swell of anticipation before the announcement.