Testudines
Syllabification: (Tes·tu·di·nes)
Pronunciation: /teˈst(y)o͞odnˌēz/
Zoology
Definition of Testudines
- an order of reptiles that comprises the turtles, terrapins, and tortoises. They are distinguished by having a shell of bony plates covered with horny scales, and many kinds are aquatic. Also called (especially formerly) Chelonia.
Origin:
modern Latin (plural), based on Latin testa 'shell'
