Definition of "turn turtle" [turn turtle]

• To turn upside down. Commonly used for boats and ships that capsize and turn through 180° so their hulls are above their superstructure, but it can refer to any vehicle in a similar position. (verb)
• To roll upside-down with one's surfboard (usually a longboard) to allow a wave (usually an already broken wave) to pass over. (verb)

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• ""It may not be so fast as an automobile race or so likely to turn turtle or break its steering-knuckle, but it's safe.""
• "They'd pay two dollars for a theater seat without half the thrills – no chances of seeing a car turn turtle or break its steering-knuckle and dash into the side-lines."