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Definition of marginated tortoise
marginated tortoise
Plural:marginated tortoises
marginated tortoise Lexical Profile
CEFR
C2
Grade
10
Tier
3
Usage
Rare
• noun
1
A medium-sized species of land tortoise native to Greece, Italy, and the Balkans, characterized by an elongated, dark carapace with prominently flared rear edges.
Example
"The marginated tortoise is well adapted to Mediterranean climates and often seeks shelter in deep burrows during the hottest parts of the day."
Word Origin & Etymology
The name 'marginated' refers to the distinctively flared, bell-like margins at the posterior end of the tortoise's carapace (shell). Its scientific name is Testudo marginata.
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Marginated tortoise. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 12, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/marginated tortoise