noun
- spring tides of minimum range occurring during the first and third quarters of the moon
Usage: nautical; oceanography
Examples
- The fishermen planned their trip around the neaps when the tidal range would be smallest.
- During neaps, the difference between high and low tide is at its minimum.
- Sailors must account for neaps when navigating shallow coastal waters.
- The harbor is easier to enter during neaps due to the reduced tidal flow.
- Neaps occur twice each lunar month when the sun and moon are at right angles.
- The marine biologist studied tide pools that were only accessible during neaps.