TURN TURTLE Meaning and
Definition
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The term "turn turtle" refers to a nautical expression that describes the action of a boat or vessel overturning or capsizing entirely, resulting in the bottom or hull being exposed and facing upwards. This phrase originally derived from observing real turtles when they instinctively retract into their shells or invert themselves to protect their vulnerable underbellies when feeling threatened.
In a maritime context, "turn turtle" typically implies a sudden and accidental event where a boat loses its balance, stability, or buoyancy, causing it to tip or flip over entirely. This situation can occur due to various factors such as strong winds, rough waters, heavy storms, or a drastic shift in weight distribution. When a vessel turns turtle, its crew and passengers face severe risks, as they can be thrown overboard, trapped beneath the boat, or become disoriented.
"Turn turtle" can also be used metaphorically to describe a situation where someone or something experiences a complete reversal, upheaval, or dramatic change in circumstances. This figurative usage highlights a complete flip or inversion of a previously established situation or outcome, often leading to unexpected and adverse consequences. In this sense, "turn turtle" suggests a sudden and dramatic shift that can disrupt or overturn the previous state of affairs.
Common Misspellings for TURN TURTLE
- rurn turtle
- furn turtle
- gurn turtle
- yurn turtle
- 6urn turtle
- 5urn turtle
- tyrn turtle
- thrn turtle
- tjrn turtle
- tirn turtle
- t8rn turtle
- t7rn turtle
- tuen turtle
- tudn turtle
- tufn turtle
- tutn turtle
- tu5n turtle
- tu4n turtle
- turb turtle
Etymology of TURN TURTLE
The phrase "turn turtle" has nautical origins and originally referred to the capsizing or overturning of a ship or boat. The term "turtle" in this context is derived from the Old English word "torht", which means "bright" or "shining". This Old English word later evolved into the Middle English word "tort" or "torte", which specifically referred to a kind of wooden framework on a ship. Over time, the phrase "turn turtle" came to describe the act of a vessel being completely overturned, with its bottom (or deck) facing upwards, resembling the shape of a turtle.
Idioms with the word TURN TURTLE
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turn turtle
To "turn turtle" means to capsize or overturn, especially when referring to a boat or a similar vessel. It can also be used figuratively to mean to experience a sudden or unexpected failure or reversal of fortune.
Similar spelling words for TURN TURTLE
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