The spelling of the word "tidetable" can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) phonetic transcription. /ˈtaɪd.tə.bəl/ The first syllable "tide" is pronounced with a long "i" sound, followed by the "d" sound and a schwa sound in the second syllable. The final syllable "table" is pronounced with a stress on the first syllable and a long "a" sound. The word is spelled with two separate words, "tidetable," indicating a table that shows the times and heights of tides in a particular area.
A tidetable can be defined as a comprehensive reference or guide that provides detailed information about the time and height of tides in a specific coastal location. Primarily used by mariners, sailors, fishermen, and oceanographers, a tidetable serves as a reliable resource for predicting the fluctuation of sea levels due to tidal movements.
The tidetable typically includes accurate data related to high tides, low tides, and tidal currents. It presents this information in a user-friendly manner, often organized in tabular form, with specific columns representing different aspects of the tide. These could include the date, time, height of the tide, and any additional information, such as variations due to lunar phases.
By referring to a tidetable, individuals engaged in maritime activities can adequately plan and prepare for various activities or navigate through potentially challenging tidal conditions. For fishermen, tidetables are particularly valuable as they indicate the optimal time for fishing, such as when certain fish species may be more active.
Furthermore, tidetables also assist beachgoers and recreational enthusiasts in planning their activities accordingly. Knowing when it is safe to engage in water sports, such as surfing or swimming, is vital to ensure the well-being and safety of those enjoying coastal areas.
Overall, a tidetable is an indispensable tool that offers accurate predictions and calculations concerning tides, allowing individuals to make informed decisions based on the changing dynamics of coastal water levels.
The word "tidetable" is a combination of two words: "tide" and "table".
The word "tide" comes from the Old English word "tid", meaning "time" or "season". It can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "tīdi", which also meant "time" or "season". This term is related to the Old High German word "zīt", the Dutch word "tijd", and the Old Norse word "tíð".
The word "table" comes from the Latin word "tabula", which means "plank" or "board". Over time, the meaning of "table" expanded to refer to a flat surface used for various purposes, including writing or displaying information.