What do you call the breaking of a wave characterized by a gradual loss of energy while spilling down the slope of a wave?

The term that describes the breaking of a wave with a gradual loss of energy as it spills down the slope is known as a "spilling wave." Spilling waves occur when the wave crest spills over as it breaks, resulting in a smooth, gradual transition from the top to the bottom of the wave. This type of wave typically forms in areas with a gentle slope on the sea floor, allowing the wave energy to dissipate more gradually as it approaches the shore.

In contrast, plunging waves break suddenly, characterized by the crest curling over the base of the wave and crashing down, usually found in steeper shorelines. Surging waves, on the other hand, are characterized by their ability to surge forward without breaking much, often seen on very steep beaches. Wave reflection refers to the bouncing back of waves when they hit a solid surface and is not related to the breaking process of waves.