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Definition of box turtle

box turtle

Plural:box turtles
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• 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."

• Nearby Words

bowtie
bowwow
box
box turtle
boxcar
boxcars
boxer

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 Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/box-turtle
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