branle-bas de combat

French

Etymology

Literally, “battle branle-bas”, as distinct from a regular branle-bas.

Pronunciation

• IPA^(key): /bʁɑ̃l.ba d(ə) kɔ̃.ba/ ~ /bʁɑ̃l.bɑ d(ə) kɔ̃.ba/

Noun

branle-bas de combat m (plural branle-bas de combat)

1. (nautical, archaic) the hurried taking down of hammocks in a ship as preparation for imminent battle; action stations
2. (figuratively) flurry, uproar, bustle, commotion

   Synonyms: remue-ménage, chambard, bordel