Synonyms for

Turtle

Verb / ˈtɜ:tʌl / Another word for turtle — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

a slow-moving reptile with a shell into which it can retract its head and thick, scaly skin

Synonyms & similar words

poloneck turtleneck capsize turnturtle tortoise terrapin chelonian tortoiseshell carapace shell testudineous emys terrapene trionyx pseudemys chrysemys graptemys mauremys batagur geochelone kinosternon sternotherus

Synonyms by register

Formal

chelonian

Informal

tortoise

Literary

terrapin

Antonyms

fast quick swift speedy rapid hasty

Common collocations

  • sea turtle
  • freshwater turtle
  • turtle shell
  • baby turtle
  • turtle soup
  • turtle neck
  • turtle dove

Word family

noun turtle
verb turtling

Usage note

While 'turtle' can refer to any chelonian reptile, 'tortoise' is typically used for land-dwelling species, and 'terrapin' for freshwater or brackish water species. 'Turtling' as a verb refers to hunting or catching turtles.

Example sentences

  1. The turtle moved slowly across the road.
  2. She has a pet turtle named Speedy.
  3. The turtle's shell helps protect it from predators.
  4. I like to watch turtles swim in the pond.
  5. The zoo has a special exhibit featuring turtles from around the world.

Quotes

  • Slow and steady wins the race. - Aesop
  • It does not matter how slow you go as long as you do not stop. - Confucius
  • The only time you should ever look back is to see how far you've come. - Unknown

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