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Definition of spiny softshell turtle
spiny softshell turtle
Plural:spiny softshell turtles
spiny softshell turtle Lexical Profile
CEFR
C1
Grade
7
Tier
3
Usage
Rare
• noun
1
North American A widespread species of freshwater turtle native to North America, distinguished by its flat, leathery, pliable upper shell and the presence of small, cone-like, spiny bumps along the leading edge of its carapace.
Example
"The wildlife biologist gently captured the spiny softshell turtle to measure its flexible carapace before releasing it back into the creek."
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
The common name derives from its physical characteristics: 'spiny' refers to the small, cone-like projections on the front edge of its carapace, 'softshell' denotes the lack of hard scutes on its leathery shell, and 'turtle' identifies its biological order (Testudines).
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.
180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Spiny softshell turtle. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 14, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/spiny softshell turtle