A cold seep is a natural phenomenon where hydrocarbon-rich fluids and gases seep out of the seabed. There are several synonyms used to describe this process, including methane seep, gas hydrate mound, and hydrocarbon seep. The term methane seep indicates the presence of methane gas, which is often the dominant gas in cold seeps. A gas hydrate mound, on the other hand, refers to the frozen form of methane that accumulates in the sediment. Lastly, hydrocarbon seep is a broader term used to describe the release of any hydrocarbon from the seafloor. These synonyms are often used interchangeably in scientific literature to describe this unique ecological system that supports a diverse array of marine life.