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Definition of hinge back tortoise

hinge back tortoise

Plural:hinge back tortoises
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• noun

1

Any of several species of African land tortoises belonging to the genus Kinixys, distinguished by a unique anatomical hinge on the rear portion of their upper shell (carapace) that allows them to enclose and protect their hind legs and tail from predators.

Example

"While surveying the scrublands of sub-Saharan Africa, the herpetologist documented a rare hinge back tortoise sheltering beneath a thorn bush."

• Nearby Words

hindsight
hindu kush
hinge
hinge back tortoise
hint
hinterland
hip

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Hinge back tortoise. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/hinge-back-tortoise
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