Definition

Noun 1. A small seabird of the family Hydrobatidae: Any of various small petrels (oceanic birds) characterized by dark plumage with paler underparts. They are known for flying low over the water's surface, often in stormy weather.

Usage and Examples

• The storm petrel is sometimes called "Mother Carey's chicken" by sailors.
• We spotted a flock of storm petrels skimming the waves behind the ship.
• The biologist is studying the migration patterns of the European storm petrel.

Advanced Usage and Notes

• The name "storm petrel" originates from the bird's habit of appearing around ships before or during storms. The "petrel" part is a reference to Saint Peter, inspired by the bird's seeming ability to walk on water.
• In a figurative or literary context, a "storm petrel" can symbolize a harbinger of trouble or unrest.
  • Example: The radical pamphlet was the storm petrel of the coming revolution.

Variants and Related Words

• Hydrobatidae: The scientific family name for storm petrels.
• Mother Carey's chicken: A traditional sailor's name for the storm petrel.
• Leach's storm petrel, Wilson's storm petrel: Examples of specific species within the group.

Synonyms

• Sea swallow (archaic/poetic)
• Mother Carey's chicken (nautical)

Related Idioms and Phrases

• A storm petrel: Used metaphorically to describe a person or thing that foreshadows or is associated with coming conflict or change.
  • Example: The new, controversial policy acted as a storm petrel, signaling major political upheaval.

Noun

1. any of various small petrels having dark plumage with paler underparts