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
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
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
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
Word origin
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.