Definitions

1. noun

A type of large, burrowing tortoise, especially Geochelone sulcata

“The zoologist studied the behavior of the African spurred tortoise, also known as the portoise, in its natural habitat.”

2. noun

A device for raising and lowering a ship or boat from the water to the shore, typically consisting of a platform and a ramp or derrick

“The portoise helped the sailors to safely disembark from the ship.”