Tortoise

n.
  1. (Zoöl.) Any one of numerous species of reptiles of the order Testudinata.
  2. (Rom. Antiq.) Same as Testudo, 2.
    3. Box tortoise, Land tortoise, etc.
    See under Box, Land, etc.
    Painted tortoise . (Zoöl.)
    See Painted turtle, under Painted.
    Soft-shell tortoise . (Zoöl.)
    See Trionyx.
    Spotted tortoise . (Zoöl.)
    A small American fresh-water tortoise (Chelopus guttatus or Nanemys guttatus) having a blackish carapace on which are scattered round yellow spots.
    Tortoise beetle (Zoöl.),
    any one of numerous species of small tortoise-shaped beetles. Many of them have a brilliant metallic luster. The larvæ feed upon the leaves of various plants, and protect themselves beneath a mass of dried excrement held over the back by means of the caudal spines. The golden tortoise beetle (Cassida aurichalcea) is found on the morning-glory vine and allied plants.
    Tortoise plant . (Bot.)
    See Elephant's foot, under Elephant.
    Tortoise shell ,
    the substance of the shell or horny plates of several species of sea turtles, especially of the hawkbill turtle. It is used in inlaying and in the manufacture of various ornamental articles.
    Tortoise-shell butterfly (Zoöl.),
    any one of several species of handsomely colored butterflies of the genus Aglais, as Aglais Milberti, and Aglais urticæ, both of which, in the larva state, feed upon nettles.
    Tortoise-shell turtle (Zoöl.),
    the hawkbill turtle. See Hawkbill.