storm petrel

• Petit oiseau marin de la famille des Hydrobatidae, connu pour voler bas au-dessus de la surface de l'océan et souvent rencontré pendant les tempêtes ; également utilisé au sens figuré pour décrire une personne qui apporte des ennuis ou est associée à des conflits.

A small seabird of the family Hydrobatidae, known for flying low over the ocean surface and often seen during storms; also used figuratively to describe a person who brings trouble or is associated with conflict.

1. B2formal

   A small seabird of the family Hydrobatidae, often seen flying low over the ocean during storms.

   Océanite tempête

   • The storm petrel is known for its ability to fly in rough weather.
   • We spotted a storm petrel skimming the waves during the gale.
   • Storm petrels are often called 'Mother Carey's chickens' by sailors.

2. Troublemaker or harbinger of conflictC1informalbritish

   A person who is associated with or causes trouble, conflict, or unrest, often appearing when problems arise.

   Oiseau de malheur / semeur de troubles

   • He's a storm petrel in the office, always stirring up arguments.
   • The journalist was known as a storm petrel, exposing scandals wherever she went.
   • Every political movement has its storm petrels who thrive on controversy.