terrapin
|ter/ra/pin|
B2
/ˈterəpɪn/
small turtle
Etymology
Etymology Information
'terrapin' originates from the Algonquian language, specifically the word 'torope,' where 'tor' meant 'turtle' and 'ope' meant 'small.'
Historical Evolution
'terrapin' changed from the Algonquian word 'torope' and eventually became the modern English word 'terrapin'.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'small turtle,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a small edible turtle found in North America, especially the diamondback terrapin.
The terrapin is often found in brackish waters.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45