Search Dictionary
Definition of spider tortoise
spider tortoise
Plural:spider tortoises
spider tortoise Lexical Profile
CEFR
C1
Grade
9
Tier
3
Usage
Rare
• noun
1
A small, critically endangered tortoise native to the dry, coastal regions of southwestern Madagascar, distinguished by the striking, yellow, web-like pattern on its dark upper shell.
Example
"Conservationists are working to protect the dwindling natural habitat of the spider tortoise from agricultural expansion in Madagascar."
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
The common name derives from the intricate, radiating yellow lines on its dark carapace, which strongly resemble a spider's web.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.
180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Spider tortoise. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 14, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/spider tortoise