noun
larger wave; bigger wave
Refers to the larger of two or more waves, often in a set with 女波 (めなみ, smaller wave). Used in contexts like surfing, poetry, or describing wave patterns.
サーファーは男波を待っていた。
The surfer was waiting for the bigger wave.
男波と女波が交互に打ち寄せる。
Larger and smaller waves wash ashore alternately.
The smaller wave in a pair or set, contrasting with 男波 (larger wave).
Compound of 男 (お, male, here meaning 'large' or 'strong') + 波 (なみ, wave). The pairing with 女波 (めなみ, smaller wave) reflects a traditional metaphorical contrast between masculine (large/strong) and feminine (small/gentle).