Tortoise: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe a specific type of terrestrial (land-dwelling) reptile known for its slow movement and hard shell.

• The tortoise slowly crossed the road.
• She has a pet tortoise named Speedy.

Typically used to describe both sea-dwelling and freshwater-dwelling species with a hard shell. In British English, it generally refers to any member of the order Chelonia.

• The turtle swam gracefully through the ocean.
• They saw a turtle sunbathing on the riverbank.

A broad category including all cold-blooded vertebrates like turtles, snakes, and lizards. Suitable for general or classification discussions.

• The zoo has a large variety of reptiles.
• Reptiles like snakes and lizards are often misunderstood.

A scientific term encompassing all turtles, tortoises, and terrapins. Mostly used in formal or academic contexts.

• The study of chelonians reveals much about evolution.
• Chelonian habitats are being threatened by climate change.

Used to describe something or someone that moves slowly, typically in a more neutral or even affectionate way.

• He crossed the finish line at a tortoise's pace
• The tortoise eventually wins the race against the hare

Often used in an informal or slightly teasing manner to describe someone who is slow in their actions or movement.

• Come on, slowpoke, we're going to be late! Don't be such a slowpoke; we've got a lot to do today

Commonly used to describe slow movement or progress, either literally or metaphorically, and can be either neutral or slightly negative.

• Traffic was moving at a snail's pace today
• If you keep working like a snail, we'll never finish this project on time

Typically used in a more negative tone to describe someone or something that is extremely slow or lazy.

• He's such a slug in the morning; it takes forever for him to get ready
• Don't be a slug; get up and help us