Which water condition is often referred to as a "sneaker wave"?

A sneaker wave is characterized by being a sudden and unexpectedly large wave that can catch individuals off guard. This phenomenon occurs on beaches and shorelines where it can be difficult to anticipate variations in wave patterns. Sneaker waves often arise from a set of circumstances where ocean swells or wave sets combine, leading to a single wave that is significantly larger than the others in the sequence.

This type of wave can pose serious dangers, as many beachgoers may be led to believe they are safe due to calm conditions or smaller waves nearby. The element of surprise associated with sneaker waves is what makes them particularly hazardous, as they can quickly sweep individuals into deeper water without warning.

In contrast, the other options describe conditions that do not reflect the unexpected nature and unpredictability associated with sneaker waves. A wave that occurs during high tide, a small, gentle wave, or a wave that is easy to predict do not embody the suddenness or threat presented by a sneaker wave, which is why B is the correct choice.