Turtle: meaning, definitions and examples

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turtle

 

[ ˈtəːt(ə)l ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

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

terrapin, tortoise

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.
Context #2 | Noun

slang

In slang, a 'turtle' can refer to a person who moves or acts slowly.

Synonyms

slowpoke, snail

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.
Context #3 | Verb

informal

To 'turtle' means to withdraw into one's shell in a defensive or protective manner.

Synonyms

retreat, withdraw

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.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #12,258, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.