An oceanic plateau, also known as a submarine plateau or a continental plateau, refers to a massive flat-topped structure that rises from the ocean floor and extends miles beneath the water surface. The term "oceanic plateau" is often used interchangeably with other similar phrases such as "underwater plateau," "submerged plateau," or "seamount." Additionally, some geologists and oceanographers may refer to this feature as a "guyot," which is a flat-topped seamount that has eroded over time due to wave and current action. While these terms may describe a similar geological feature, they may have slightly different geological processes or characteristics.