What is the term for a large and destructive wave typically caused by underwater earthquakes?

The term for a large and destructive wave typically caused by underwater earthquakes is "tsunami." Tsunamis are generated when there is a significant displacement of water, which can occur due to seismic activities like earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, or underwater landslides. When an earthquake occurs on the ocean floor, it can displace a massive volume of water, leading to waves that can travel across entire ocean basins at high speeds. As these waves approach shallower coastal areas, they slow down and increase in height, often resulting in devastating impacts on coastal communities.

In contrast, other terms in the choices represent different natural phenomena. A typhoon is a type of tropical cyclone that occurs in the Northwest Pacific region, while a hurricane is a tropical cyclone occurring in the Atlantic and Northeast Pacific. Both are associated with high winds and rain but not with the large waves caused by seismic activity. A seiche refers to an oscillation of water in an enclosed space, such as a bay or lake, caused by differences in atmospheric pressure or strong winds, not by underwater earthquakes. Thus, the term "tsunami" uniquely describes the large waves associated with underwater seismic events, making it the correct choice.