Meniscus oscillations at interfaces between liquids, solids, and air significantly impact fluid dynamics and control. While idealized models exist, experimental data on capillary–gravity wave scattering involving meniscus effects remain limited. In this Letter, we systematically measured wave transmission past a surface-piercing barrier, focusing on meniscus effects. By varying the barrier’s surface properties and the wave frequencies, we explored how meniscus deformation influences wave transmission. The results are compared with simulations and limiting-case theories. We interpret that the meniscus water column formed beneath the barrier enhances flow coupling and increases wave transmission, while meniscus surface bending suppresses it by constraining motion. These competing effects explain the observed frequency and contact angle dependencies. Our findings provide insights into how meniscus dynamics govern surface wave behavior.

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• Capillary waves
• Contact line dynamics
• Surface gravity waves
• Surface tension effects
• Wave scattering
• Wave-structure interactions