Wave shoaling is a term that describes the process of waves changing as they approach shallow water. It's an important concept in oceanography and marine engineering, as it affects everything from beach erosion and coastal flooding to the design of boats and offshore structures. There are several synonyms for wave shoaling, depending on the context and discipline. In physical oceanography, it's often referred to as "wave transformation" or "wave attenuation". Coastal engineers may use the term "wave height increase" or "wave breaking". In marine geology and sedimentology, it can be called "wave scouring" or "wave abrasion". Regardless of the terminology, wave shoaling is a complex phenomenon that requires careful analysis and modeling to understand its effects on coastlines and marine structures.