spring tide

spring tide n. 1. The exceptionally high and low tides that occur at the time of the new moon or the full moon when the sun, moon, and earth are approximately aligned. 2. A great flood or rush, as of emotion.

spring tide Spring tides occur when the sun and moon are directly in line with the earth and their gravitational pulls reinforce each other.

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spring tide

n

1. (Earth Sciences / Physical Geography) either of the two tides that occur at or just after new moon and full moon when the tide-generating force of the sun acts in the same direction as that of the moon, reinforcing it and causing the greatest rise and fall in tidal level. The highest spring tides (equinoctial springs) occur at the equinoxes Compare neap tide

2. any great rush or flood

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spring tide A tide in which the difference between high and low tide is the greatest. Spring tides occur when the Moon is either new or full, and the Sun, the Moon, and the Earth are aligned. When this is the case, their collective gravitational pull on the Earth's water is strengthened. Compare neap tide. See more at tide.

spring tide Spring tides occur when the Sun and Moon are in line with the Earth and their gravitational pulls reinforce each other.