diamondback terrapin

American  

noun

1. any of several edible turtles of the genus Malaclemys, found in tidewaters of the eastern and southern U.S., having diamond-shaped markings on the back.

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Etymology

Origin of diamondback terrapin

First recorded in 1875–80

Example Sentences

It turned out to be a diamondback terrapin.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 30, 2025

A rare two-headed diamondback terrapin is alive and kicking — with all six of its legs — at the Birdsey Cape Wildlife Center in Massachusetts after hatching two weeks ago.

From Washington Post • Oct. 13, 2021

BARNSTABLE, Mass. — A rare two-headed diamondback terrapin turtle is alive and kicking - with all six of its legs - at the Birdsey Cape Wildlife Center in Massachusetts after hatching two weeks ago.

From Washington Times • Oct. 12, 2021

It filled the space with shimmering texts of cut metal that delved into unusual relationships, including that of the turtle conservationist Richard Ogust and the diamondback terrapin that pointed him toward his calling.

From New York Times • Dec. 4, 2020

This undated photo provided on Friday, July 15, 2016, from the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey shows a diamondback terrapin turtle on a JFK airport runway in New York.

From US News • Jul. 15, 2016