Illustration of softshell
soft·shell
ˈsȯf(t)-ˌshel 
: any of a family (Trionychidae) of freshwater carnivorous turtles that have sharp claws and mandibles and a flat round shell covered with soft leathery skin instead of with horny plates
called also soft-shelled turtle
variants
or soft-shelled
: having a soft or fragile shell especially as a result of recent shedding
soft-shell crabs
Examples of softshell in a Sentence
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Samantha Nelson, Chicago Tribune, 15 June 2026
From relaxed-fit cargo pants with zippered thigh pockets to ultralight, quick-drying softshell pants with a DWR (durable water-repellent) coating, our lineup of the best hiking pants balances true functionality and style.
—Jessica Chapel, Condé Nast Traveler, 1 Mar. 2026
Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 30 May 2026
When in season, the soft-shell crab appetizer is especially noteworthy and widely considered a must-try.
—Kristy Tolley, Travel + Leisure, 13 May 2026
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Noun
At dinner, the restaurant offers a Father’s Day tasting menu ($135) including crispy softshell crab tempura, sushi and toro tartare with caviar.
—Samantha Nelson, Chicago Tribune, 15 June 2026
From relaxed-fit cargo pants with zippered thigh pockets to ultralight, quick-drying softshell pants with a DWR (durable water-repellent) coating, our lineup of the best hiking pants balances true functionality and style.
—Jessica Chapel, Condé Nast Traveler, 1 Mar. 2026
Adjective
This soft-shell Carhartt bag is insulated inside, water-repellent on the outside, and means my husband doesn’t have to share our toddler’s Bluey lunchbox anymore.
—Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 30 May 2026
When in season, the soft-shell crab appetizer is especially noteworthy and widely considered a must-try.
—Kristy Tolley, Travel + Leisure, 13 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for softshell
Cite this Entry
“Softshell.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/softshell. Accessed 17 Jun. 2026.
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