• A tidal wave is the crest of a tide as it moves around the Earth. They are caused by the natural gravitational pull of the sun and moon as opposed to ocean surface waves which are caused by wind friction on the surface of the water.

The term tidal wave can refer to:

• A tsunami. Tidal wave is a common name for the occurrence, however this traditional usage is considered incorrect by oceanographers, seismologists and other scientists since no tides are involved. Tidal can be thought to refer to the magnitude rather than the nature of the wave. Although the term "tidal wave" was formerly more popular with the general public, news media reporting of the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake used the term "tsunami" almost exclusively. As a result, the term "tsunami" is now much better known. However, many dispute this, claiming "tsunami" is no more accurate than "tidal wave", as it means harbor wave in Japanese.

• A large wave due to a tide known as a tidal bore.

• The album ''Tidal Wave by the band Longwave.

• The military operation of WWII Tidal Wave

• The name of a Decepticon in the Transformers universe.

• The theme park ride at Thorpe Park, UK.