Turtle: meaning, definitions and examples
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turtle
[ ˈtəːt(ə)l ]
sea animal
A turtle is a large reptile with a hard shell that lives in the sea. Turtles are known for their slow movement and long lifespan.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| turtle |
Use this word when talking about marine reptiles that live in the ocean or spend most of their time in water. It is a general term used mostly in American English.
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| tortoise |
This word is used when talking about land-dwelling turtles. Tortoises typically have sturdy, dome-shaped shells and move slowly.
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| terrapin |
This term is best used when referring to turtles that live in fresh or brackish water. It is common in American English and often refers to species like the diamondback terrapin.
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Examples of usage
- The turtle slowly crawled across the sand to reach the ocean.
- Many species of turtles are endangered due to habitat destruction and pollution.
slang
In slang, a 'turtle' can refer to a person who moves or acts slowly.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| turtle |
Repeatedly using 'turtle' in descriptions of slowness can provide a gentle, humorous touch without sounding overly critical.
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| slowpoke |
Informal and often used with a teasing tone to describe someone who is slow at doing something compared to others.
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| snail |
Used to emphasize extreme slowness. Can sometimes have a negative or critical tone.
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Examples of usage
- Come on, don't be a turtle! We need to hurry up.
- He's such a turtle when it comes to making decisions.
informal
To 'turtle' means to withdraw into one's shell in a defensive or protective manner.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| turtle |
This term often describes the slow-moving reptile with a hard shell. It can also metaphorically describe someone who is slow or acts cautiously.
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| withdraw |
This word is used when someone is pulling back or removing themselves from a situation or activity. It often implies a deliberate or formal action.
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| retreat |
Use this word when describing a situation where someone or something is moving back, typically to a safer place. It can also mean taking a break to relax and reflect.
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Examples of usage
- When she heard the bad news, she immediately turtled up and refused to talk to anyone.
- Sometimes it's okay to turtle and take a break from social interactions.
Translations
Translations of the word "turtle" in other languages:
🇵🇹 tartaruga
🇮🇳 कछुआ
🇩🇪 Schildkröte
🇮🇩 kura-kura
🇺🇦 черепаха
🇵🇱 żółw
🇯🇵 カメ (kame)
🇫🇷 tortue
🇪🇸 tortuga
🇹🇷 kaplumbağa
🇰🇷 거북이 (geobugi)
🇸🇦 سلحفاة (sulḥafā)
🇨🇿 želva
🇸🇰 korytnačka
🇨🇳 乌龟 (wūguī)
🇸🇮 želva
🇮🇸 skjaldbaka
🇰🇿 тасбақа
🇬🇪 კუ (ku)
🇦🇿 tısbağa
🇲🇽 tortuga
Etymology
The word 'turtle' originated from the Latin word 'tortuca', which means 'twisted'. It was first used in the English language in the 17th century to describe the reptile known for its hard shell. Turtles have been symbols of longevity, protection, and wisdom in various cultures around the world. They are fascinating creatures that have existed for millions of years, adapting to different environments and surviving many challenges.