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 (invariable) (nautical, archaic) the hurried taking down of hammocks in a ship as preparation for imminent battle; action stations (figuratively) flurry, uproar, bustle, commotion Synonyms: remue-ménage, chambard, bordel