How Do You Spell STORMY PETREL?

Pronunciation: [stˈɔːmi pˈɛtɹə͡l] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "stormy petrel" is quite tricky. It is pronounced /ˈstɔːrmi ˈpɛtrəl/ with the stress on the first syllable. The word "petrel" comes from the French word "pétrel" and was borrowed into English in the 17th century. The "y" added to "storm" is likely due to an analogy to other bird names ending with "y", such as "dovey" or "swaney". The "o" in "stormy" is pronounced as in "fort". The spelling might be confusing but the bird itself is fascinating - it can fly long distances and is known as a symbol of bad weather.

STORMY PETREL Meaning and Definition

1. A "stormy petrel" refers to a small marine bird belonging to the family Hydrobatidae, known for its ability to survive and thrive amidst stormy weather conditions at sea. The term "petrel" originates from the name of Peter, one of Jesus' disciples, who is said to have walked on water. This association with water and the bird's ability to effortlessly glide and maneuver through stormy seas earned it the name "petrel."

   Stormy petrels are typically found in the Northern Hemisphere, inhabiting coastal regions and open waters. These birds possess distinct characteristics that make them well-suited for their marine lifestyle. They have long, pointed wings that allow them to soar and dive with exceptional agility, effortlessly navigating the wind currents. Their plumage is usually dark-colored, often black, which helps them camouflage and blend in with the stormy skies and rough ocean waters.

   Stormy petrels are known for their remarkable endurance and resilience, venturing out to sea even in the most turbulent weather conditions. They thrive by feeding on small fish and plankton that surface during storms. Interestingly, stormy petrels have been linked to maritime superstitions, often being associated with bad weather and storms, leading sailors to view their appearance as a bad omen.

   In summary, a stormy petrel is a small marine bird that possesses exceptional flying skills, particularly adept at navigating stormy oceans. Its distinctive features and ability to adapt to harsh environmental conditions make it a remarkable creature to observe in its natural habitat.

2. A black sea-bird often seen flying swiftly in the wake of a ship before or during a storm.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for STORMY PETREL

• atormy petrel
• ztormy petrel
• xtormy petrel
• dtormy petrel
• etormy petrel
• wtormy petrel
• srormy petrel
• sformy petrel
• sgormy petrel
• syormy petrel
• s6ormy petrel
• s5ormy petrel
• stirmy petrel
• stkrmy petrel
• stlrmy petrel
• stprmy petrel
• st0rmy petrel
• st9rmy petrel
• stoemy petrel

Etymology of STORMY PETREL

The word "stormy petrel" has an interesting etymology. The term "petrel" is derived from the Latin word "petrocellus", meaning "little Peter". This name was given to the birds due to their habit of seeming to walk on water, which was reminiscent of the biblical story of Saint Peter who walked on water with Jesus.

The adjective "stormy" refers to the bird's affinity for rough weather, particularly storms. Stormy petrels are known to frequently appear at sea during storms, riding the currents and taking advantage of the strong winds. They are even said to bring bad weather or storms with them, thus tying their name to stormy conditions.

Overall, the term "stormy petrel" combines the bird's ability to brave stormy seas with its resemblance to walking on water, resulting in a fitting name for these remarkable seabirds.

Similar spelling words for STORMY PETREL

• Storm Centre,
• storm petrel.