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Definition of box turtle
box turtle
Plural:box turtles
• noun
1
North American Any of several largely terrestrial turtles primarily native to North America (genus Terrapene) or Asia (genus Cuora), characterized by a highly domed upper shell and a uniquely hinged lower shell that allows the animal to completely enclose its head and limbs for protection against predators.
Example
"While exploring the moist woodlands behind our house, the children were delighted to spot an Eastern box turtle foraging among the fallen leaves."
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.
180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Box turtle. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 18, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/box%20turtle