whitecap

[hwahyt-kap, wahyt-]

noun

1. a wave with a broken and foaming white crest.

whitecap

/ ˈwaɪtˌkæp /

noun

1. a wave with a white broken crest

2. a member of a vigilante organization that attempts to control a community

Word History and Origins

Origin of whitecap¹

First recorded in 1660–70; white + cap ¹

Example Sentences

One evening, ominous, low-lying tube-shaped clouds known as arcus formed, and whitecaps appeared in the waves.

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Far below, through the tattered clouds, the chalk cliffs of Dover glowed white as old bone, and the dark water of the English Channel was flecked with whitecaps.

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But there are whitecaps on the horizon, suggesting rougher seas ahead.

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“It’s really important that the recreational boater — or even professional boater — recognize that when whitecaps turn up so fast ... it’s time to put on your life jacket and get off the water.”

Read more on Los Angeles Times

It’s a little breezy, but besides a few whitecaps, you hardly notice the sailing conditions.

Read more on Seattle Times

Related Words

• crest 
• flood 
• influx 
• movement 
• outbreak 
• rash 
• rush 
• sign 
• stream 
• surge 
• swell 
• tide 
• upsurge