"The __ is calm tonight": "Dover Beach" opening (3)

I believe the answer is:

sea

(Other definitions for sea that I've seen before include "E.g Aral or Weddell" , "that's easily reached from Dover?" , "Great expanse of water" , "Lesser ocean" , "Part of ocean" .)

I've seen this clue in the LA Times.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.