Definitions

1. noun

A slow-moving reptile with a shell that withdraws into for protection, typically living on land or in water.

“The children visited the zoo to see the turtles swimming in the aquarium.”

2. noun

A person who moves slowly and carefully, often in a difficult or awkward situation.

“After the accident, John became a turtle on the road, taking his time to get to the hospital.”

3. verb

To move slowly and carefully, often in a difficult or awkward situation.

“The new employee had to turtle through the complex instructions to complete the project.”

4. verb

To protect oneself by withdrawing into a shell or a defensive position.

“The turtle turtle’d its head into the shell to avoid the predator’s attack.”