sea turtle

noun

: any of two families (Cheloniidae and Dermochelyidae) of widely distributed marine turtles that have the feet modified into paddles and that include the green turtle, leatherback, hawksbill, loggerhead, and ridley

Examples of sea turtle in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Follow stone markers along the seafloor of the 650-foot trail, witnessing friendly sea turtles and a kaleidoscope of colorful fish living amongst a healthy coral reef system. Condé Nast Traveler, 30 Jan. 2026 Grand Cayman is known for its natural features, like the white sands of Seven Mile Beach; diverse wildlife, including stingrays, sea turtles and rare blue iguanas; and high-end shopping and culinary experiences. Alex Driggars, Austin American Statesman, 29 Jan. 2026 Read about sea turtle Porkchop’s recovery journey at Long Beach’s aquarium. Lila Seidman, Los Angeles Times, 29 Jan. 2026 Aquarium staff said if a sea turtle appears stranded, sick, or injured, call NOAA's Sea Turtle Stranding and Salvage Network at (562) 506-4315. Julie Sharp, CBS News, 28 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for sea turtle

Word History

First Known Use

1612, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of sea turtle was in 1612

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Cite this Entry

“Sea turtle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sea%20turtle. Accessed 4 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

sea turtle

noun
: any of various large marine turtles (as the green turtle or the loggerhead) that have paddle-shaped feet to aid in swimming

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