musk turtle

American  

noun

1. any of several aquatic turtles of the genus Sternotherus, of North America, which, when disturbed, emit a musky secretion.

---

musk turtle British  

noun

1. any of several small turtles of the genus Sternotherus, esp S. odoratus ( common musk turtle or stinkpot ), that emit a strong unpleasant odour: family Kinosternidae

---

Etymology

Origin of musk turtle

An Americanism dating back to 1865–70; so called from its musky smell

Example Sentences

Though some species like the eastern musk turtle are common, a listing means traders will need a permit to sell them internationally.

From Seattle Times • Nov. 9, 2022

Flattened musk turtle An Alabama reptile listed in 1987 because it was threatened by runoff from old coal mines.

From Time Magazine Archive

Seasonal changes in the testis of the musk turtle, Sternotherus odoratus L. Journ.

From Natural History of the Ornate Box Turtle, Terrapene ornata ornata Agassiz by Legler, John M.