petrel

noun

pe·​trel ˈpe-trəl  ˈpē- 

: any of numerous seabirds (especially families Procellariidae and Hydrobatidae)

especially : one of the smaller long-winged birds that fly far from land compare storm petrel

Examples of petrel in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Skuas, gulls and giant petrels cross enormous distances over the Southern Ocean, and the virus traveled with them. — John Drake, Forbes.com, 21 June 2026

Birds such as albatross and southern giant petrels are often visible soaring through the skies above, while elephant seals permeate the beaches and solitary leopard seals feed in the surrounding waters. — Laura Kiniry, Condé Nast Traveler, 28 Jan. 2026

If fish are difficult to find and aren’t plentiful — if the food source shifts an extra 200 kilometers, say, and an adult petrel therefore has to fly 800 km for food — the journey takes longer, and will affect the chick’s growth. — Ariel Saramandi, The Dial, 29 July 2025

Broughton’s use of bright exterior paints was partly informed by conversations with marine biologists who were concerned that seabirds, such as petrels, might become confused by — or even accidentally strike — white- or gray-colored buildings. — Oscar Holland, CNN Money, 25 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

earlier also pitteril, pitteral, of obscure origin

First Known Use

1602, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing petrel

• storm petrel
• stormy petrel

Rhymes for petrel

• diametral

Kids Definition

petrel

noun

pe·​trel ˈpe-trəl  ˈpē- 

: any of various seabirds with long wings that fly far from land