Definition

1. Noun:
   • A taxonomic genus of North American turtles: "genus Terrapene" refers specifically to a biological genus within the family Emydidae, commonly known as box turtles. These turtles are characterized by a hinged plastron (bottom shell) that allows them to completely enclose themselves within their shell for protection.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The biologist is studying the evolutionary history of genus Terrapene.
  • Genus Terrapene includes several species, like the Eastern box turtle.

Advanced Usage

• In taxonomic classification: The name is always capitalized ("Terrapene") and italicized in scientific writing to denote its status as a genus name.
  • The specimen was classified under the genus Terrapene.

Variants and Related Words

• Terrapene (n): The standardized, singular form of the genus name.
  • Terrapene carolina is a species within this genus.
• Box turtle (n): The common name for turtles belonging to this genus.
  • We found a box turtle (Terrapene ornata) in the field.

Synonyms

• Box turtle genus: A descriptive synonym referencing the common name of its members.

Notes on Meaning

• The term "genus Terrapene" is a formal, scientific binomial. In everyday language, people typically use the common name "box turtles." The word "genus" in this phrase specifies the taxonomic rank, distinguishing it from a species, family, or other classification level.

Noun

1. box turtles