snapping turtle

noun
1.
either of two large, edible, freshwater turtles of the family Chelydridae, of North and Central America, having a large head and powerful hooked jaws, especially the common snapping turtle, Chelydra serpentina.
Origin
1775-85, Americanism
Examples from the web for snapping turtle
  • Never mind the occasional snapping turtle or snake that gets in the way.
  • Information on the appearance, habits and habitat preferences of the snapping turtle.
  • The only turtle species for which there is an open hunting season are the snapping turtle and the diamondback terrapin.
  • The aquarium is also proud to house a rare albino snapping turtle found in a local pond.
British Dictionary definitions for snapping turtle

snapping turtle

noun
1.
any large aggressive North American river turtle of the family Chelydridae, esp Chelydra serpentina (common snapping turtle), having powerful hooked jaws and a rough shell Also called snapper