Cryptodire

/ˌkrɪptəˈdaɪr/ noun

Definition

A turtle that can hide its head and neck by folding them sideways into its shell, rather than pulling them straight back.

Etymology

From 'crypto-' (hidden) + Greek 'diros' (neck). This is the contrasting suborder to Cryptodira, established in the same taxonomic framework during mid-20th century herpetology.

Kelly Says

Cryptodires include sea turtles and soft-shells—they can't pull their heads straight back, but they can tuck them sideways with incredible flexibility, which actually works better in water where straight-back turtles would get stuck!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.