petrel

What is another word for petrel? Here is its meaning, with related words and examples.

Noun — Any of various black, grey or white seabirds that spend most of their life far out at sea.

We haven't recorded synonyms for petrel yet. You can still read its full definition, where it comes from, or words that rhyme with it.

How to use petrel

The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.

a storm petrel a colony of petrels a petrel's nest

Petrel is a specific, everyday name for this group of seabirds rather than a technical term.

Etymology

Petrel comes from an earlier English form, pitteral. One suggestion links the name to a diminutive of Peter, referencing the story of St Peter walking on water. A separate suggestion, proposed by the ornithologist Elliott Coues, derives it instead from patter or pitter-patter.

Full origin of petrel →

Frequently asked questions

What is a petrel?

A petrel is a seabird, coloured black, grey or white, that spends much of its life out over the open ocean.

Why is a petrel called a petrel?

One idea links it to a diminutive of Peter, referencing St Peter walking on water; a separate idea derives it from patter or pitter-patter.

Is petrel the same word as petrol?

No, though they sound alike in most accents. A petrel is a seabird, while petrol is the fuel used in vehicles.

Nearby words

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