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Dictionary Language resources

petrel

Pronunciation: /ˈpɛtr(ə)l/

Definition of petrel

noun

a seabird related to the shearwaters, typically flying far from land.
- Order Procellariiformes, in particular the families Procellariidae (e.g. the giant petrel and pintado petrel) or Hydrobatidae (the storm petrels).

Origin:

early 17th century: associated with St Peter, from the bird's habit of flying low with legs dangling, giving the appearance of walking on the water (see Matt. 14:30)