Perhaps we can just go back to calling them tidal waves. Which is also ambiguous. I guess if I had any point it's just that it's not colloquial to call tsunami waves, its technical. If anything distinguishing based on how they feel compared to regular wind waves is more colloquial.

Honestly tidal wave, a wave that comes in like the tide, might actually be a better term than tsunami (lit Harbor Wave) A wave that destroys your harbor? A wave found in your harbor(a place where there are usually no waves)? What if you are not in a harbor, do you still get a wave?

I am just having a bit of linguistic fun. Tsunami is a great clear distinct term for what can be a very destructive event.