Wave period refers to the amount of time it takes for the peak of one wave to pass a given point before the peak of the following wave peak reaches the same point. Used to look at the swell/wave period back when we surfed more. Think of it like this - you’re out in the ocean on your board and a wave just passes over you, you have 15 seconds until the next wave peaks at your same spot and it’s a smooth, calm wait. Likewise if you only had 5-8 seconds it’s going to seem much more ‘choppy’ and the waves are likely more disorganized vs the smooth swell of the 20 second period.

In a sense the shorter the wave period the conditions. Longer wave period should seem smoother (although the chances of the waves being larger when breaking on the shore is greater). Something to consider when planning on taking the dingy into the beach.