What term is used for waves of the sea as they break upon a shore or reef?

The term "surf" specifically refers to the waves of the sea as they break upon a shore or reef. This phenomenon occurs when waves approach the coastline and encounter shallower water, causing them to rise up and eventually break. The surf is characterized by its white-capped waves and the frothy foam that we often associate with crashing waves along the beach.

Understanding this term also involves recognizing the context; while "breakers" might seem similar, it more generally refers to any wave that breaks, not specifically the action of waves on the shore. "Swell" refers to the long, rolling waves generated by distant storm systems before they reach the shore, while "gradient" describes a change in slope or a rate of change in a physical quantity, which does not apply to waves directly in this context. Thus, "surf" distinctly captures the interaction of waves with the land, encompassing the essence of this process.