1. strong currents of water flowing away from shore, typically formed when waves pushed toward shore by wind flow back to sea through a narrow channel
Usage: oceanography; plural of riptide

Examples

• The lifeguards warned swimmers about dangerous riptides near the pier.
• Several beaches were closed due to strong riptides caused by the storm.
• Surfers know to swim parallel to shore when caught in riptides.
• The coastal warning system alerts beachgoers when riptides are present.
• Many drowning incidents occur when people panic in riptides instead of staying calm.
• Riptides are most common during high tide and stormy weather.