What term refers to the buildup of sediment along a coastal area due to wave action?

The term that refers to the buildup of sediment along a coastal area due to wave action is beach accretion. This process involves the accumulation of sand and sediment from the water, which is often the result of wave action and currents depositing materials on the shore. Beach accretion can lead to the expansion of beaches and is an essential factor in coastal dynamics, contributing to the stability and structure of coastal ecosystems.

In contrast, coastal erosion involves the removal of sediment from shorelines, sea-level rise refers to the increase in ocean levels often linked to climate change, and longshore transport describes the movement of sediment along the coastline due to wave action. While these terms relate to coastal processes, beach accretion specifically captures the essence of sediment buildup along the shoreline.