Terrapin: meaning, definitions and examples

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terrapin

[ˈterəpɪn ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

turtle-like animal

A small turtle that primarily inhabits fresh or brackish water, typically found in North America. Terrapins have a distinctive diamond-shaped shell and webbed feet, making them adept swimmers.

Synonyms

chelonian, tortoise, turtle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
terrapin	Typically describes a type of turtle that lives both in fresh water and on land. Commonly used in North America. The kids were excited to see a terrapin crossing the road near the pond
turtle	Commonly used to describe reptiles from the order Testudines, particularly those that live in water. In American English, 'turtle' can refer to both sea turtles and freshwater species. We saw a sea turtle swimming gracefully near the coral reef
tortoise	Refers to reptile species that live on land. Tortoises generally have heavier, domed shells compared to other turtles. The giant tortoise moved slowly but steadily towards the leafy bush
chelonian	A scientific term used to refer to any member of the order Testudines, which includes turtles, tortoises, and terrapins. It's often used in academic or scientific contexts. Chelonian species have diverse adaptations to aquatic and terrestrial environments

Examples of usage

I spotted a terrapin basking in the sun near the riverbank.
The terrapin quickly dove into the water when it sensed danger.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

culinary

A small edible turtle with a diamond-shaped shell, often used in traditional Southern cuisine. Terrapins are considered a delicacy in some regions.

Synonyms

tortoise meat, turtle meat.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
terrapin	This word is used to describe small turtles that live both on land and in fresh water. It is often used in North American contexts. We saw a terrapin basking on a log by the river. Terrapins make interesting pets if you can care for their specific needs.
turtle meat	This term is used when referring to the flesh of turtles that is prepared and eaten as food. It is often associated with specific cuisines and can be controversial due to ethical and conservation issues. Turtle meat is a traditional ingredient in certain regional stews and soups.
tortoise meat	This term is used when referring to the flesh of tortoises that is prepared and eaten as food. Consumption of tortoise meat is often illegal and controversial due to conservation efforts. In some countries, tortoise meat is considered a delicacy, although it is highly regulated.

Word

Description / Examples

terrapin

This word is used to describe small turtles that live both on land and in fresh water. It is often used in North American contexts.

We saw a terrapin basking on a log by the river.
Terrapins make interesting pets if you can care for their specific needs.

turtle meat

This term is used when referring to the flesh of turtles that is prepared and eaten as food. It is often associated with specific cuisines and can be controversial due to ethical and conservation issues.

Turtle meat is a traditional ingredient in certain regional stews and soups.

tortoise meat

This term is used when referring to the flesh of tortoises that is prepared and eaten as food. Consumption of tortoise meat is often illegal and controversial due to conservation efforts.

In some countries, tortoise meat is considered a delicacy, although it is highly regulated.

Examples of usage

She made a delicious terrapin stew for dinner.
The restaurant's specialty is terrapin soup.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Algonquin word 'torope,' which means 'a turtle or tortoise.'
The term was adapted into English in the early 1600s, reflecting the interaction between Native Americans and European settlers.

Ecology

Terrapins are found in various habitats, but they thrive in brackish waters, which are a mix of salt and freshwater.
They play an essential role in their ecosystems by helping to control algae and aquatic plant growth.

Culinary Art

In some cultures, terrapin is considered a delicacy and has been featured in traditional dishes, such as terrapin soup.
The culinary popularity of terrapins in the 19th century led to overharvesting, resulting in conservation efforts.

Cultural Significance

In certain Native American cultures, terrapins are symbols of perseverance and resilience.
Terrapins are also associated with various folk tales and myths that highlight their unique characteristics.

Conservation Status

Certain species of terrapins are threatened due to habitat loss, pollution, and climate change.
Efforts are underway in many regions to protect their habitats and ensure their survival.

Translations

Translations of the word "terrapin" in other languages:

🇵🇹 cágado

🇮🇳 कछुआ

🇩🇪 Schildkröte

🇮🇩 kura-kura

🇺🇦 черепаха

🇵🇱 żółw

🇯🇵 カメ

🇫🇷 tortue

🇪🇸 tortuga

🇹🇷 kaplumbağa

🇰🇷 거북이

🇸🇦 سلحفاة

🇨🇿 želva

🇸🇰 korytnačka

🇨🇳 龟

🇸🇮 želva

🇮🇸 skjaldbaka

🇰🇿 тасбақа

🇬🇪 კუსი

🇦🇿 tısbağa

🇲🇽 tortuga

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,738 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

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33735 hijab
33736 balloted
33737 embouchure
33738 terrapin
33739 unfading
33740 sluggard
33741 fatwa
...