turtle
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ˈtɜːrtl/
KK: /ˈtɜːrtl/
intransitive verb
Definition
A type of reptile known for its hard shell that protects its body and its slow movement.
Example
The turtle slowly made its way across the sandy beach.
Tense Forms
Past: turtled
Past Participle: turtled
Conversation
Have you ever gone out to turtle in the summer?
No, I haven’t, but it sounds interesting!
It's a fun way to connect with nature and see the wildlife.
I can imagine! I’d love to try it one day.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
capsize
overturn
sink
Antonyms
float
stabilize
rise
noun
Definition
A turtle is a type of reptile that has a hard shell covering its body. It can live in water or on land, and it can pull its head, legs, and tail into its shell for protection.
Example
The turtle slowly crawled across the sandy beach.
Conversation
Have you ever seen a turtle in real life?
Yeah, I saw one at the beach last summer!
They're so fascinating with their shells and slow movements.
Root Explanation
The word 'turtle' originates from the Middle French 'tortue', which is derived from the Latin 'tortuca', meaning a type of tortoise. The term refers to a slow-moving reptile with a shell.
Memory Tip
Think of the French word 'tortue' for tortoise, which helps you remember that a turtle is a type of tortoise.
Visually Confused Words
turkle
tourte
tartle
hurtle
tute
turntable
turnstile
tule