Carapace Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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carapace
[ˈkærəˌpeɪs ]
Definitions
turtle shell
The carapace is the hard upper shell of a turtle, which provides protection for its body. It is made up of plates called scutes, and it is connected to the turtle's backbone and ribs.
Synonyms
armor, covering, shell, shield.
Examples of usage
- The turtle retreated into its carapace when it sensed danger.
- The carapace of the turtle had intricate patterns and colors.
crustacean shell
In crustaceans such as crabs and lobsters, the carapace refers to the hard shell covering the cephalothorax, providing protection for the internal organs. It is often thicker and more rigid than the rest of the exoskeleton.
Synonyms
armor, covering, exoskeleton, shell.
Examples of usage
- The crab's carapace was a deep red color.
- The lobster's carapace was covered in barnacles.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Biology
- Carapaces serve as exoskeletons for crustaceans like crabs and lobsters, helping them to survive in aquatic environments.
- The thickness and strength of a carapace can vary greatly between species, providing different levels of protection against predators.
Cultural Significance
- In some indigenous cultures, carapaces of turtles are used to create instruments, artworks, and tools.
- The hard shell has often been depicted in folk tales and stories, symbolizing protection and resilience.
Environmental Adaptations
- Different animals have evolved varied carapace designs; for example, the smooth carapace of a turtle allows for streamlined swimming.
- Certain species, like the armored catfish, have evolved a unique type of carapace that helps them camouflage among riverbeds.
Linguistic Usage
- The term 'carapace' is often used metaphorically in literature to describe a protective layer or barrier in human emotions or social contexts.
- In discussions on animal behavior, studying carapaces helps scientists understand evolutionary adaptations and survival strategies.
Origin of 'carapace'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Latin 'carapax,' which means shell, and was influenced by the French word 'carapace.'
- In ancient times, early Italians used a similar term to refer to the protective parts of their armors.
The word 'carapace' originated in the mid-19th century from the French word 'carapace', which in turn came from the Spanish 'carapacho', meaning 'shell'. The term has been used in biology to describe the protective shell or covering of various animals, such as turtles and crustaceans.