Partly submerged by waves from a passing vessel (5)

I believe the answer is:

awash

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'partly submerged' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)

I don't understand the rest of the clue.

(Other definitions for awash that I've seen before include "Flood" , "With the top just covered with water" , "Flooded with water" , "Swimming" , "Doused in water" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.

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