tortoise

noun

tor·​toise ˈtȯr-təs 

1

: any of a family (Testudinidae) of terrestrial turtles

broadly : turtle

2

: someone or something regarded as slow or laggard

Examples of tortoise in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The 360-acre preserve adjacent to the LEC and Deltona Regional Library is home to a variety of wildlife, including Florida scrub jays and gopher tortoises, which are drawn to the low vegetation and sandy ridges of the scrub habitat. —Joe Rassel, The Orlando Sentinel, 21 Aug. 2025

These specific tortoises are found in the wild on the Galapagos Islands and can grow to between 250 and 500 pounds. —Tj MacIas, Miami Herald, 21 Aug. 2025

The oversized tortoise shell buttons add a gorgeous statement detail without going overboard, and the cotton construction keeps it breathable, especially compared to wool or other heavy fabrics. —Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 6 Aug. 2025

The land that would have been paved over is home to federally protected Florida scrub jays and gopher tortoises. —Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 14 Aug. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English tortu, tortuse, from Anglo-French tortue — more at turtle

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing tortoise

• desert tortoise
• giant tortoise
• tortoise beetle

Rhymes for tortoise

• fortis
• mortis
• abortus

Kids Definition

tortoise

noun

tor·​toise ˈtȯrt-əs 

: turtle entry 2

especially : a land-dwelling turtle