softshell

1 of 2

noun

soft·​shell ˈsȯf(t)-ˌshel How to pronounce softshell (audio)
: any of a family (Trionychidae) of freshwater carnivorous turtles that have sharp claws and mandibles and a flat round shell covered with soft leathery skin instead of with horny plates

called also soft-shelled turtle

Illustration of softshell

Illustration of softshell

soft-shell

2 of 2

adjective

ˈsȯf(t)-ˌshel How to pronounce soft-shell (audio)
variants or soft-shelled
ˈsȯf(t)-ˈsheld How to pronounce soft-shell (audio)
: having a soft or fragile shell especially as a result of recent shedding
soft-shell crabs

Examples of softshell in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Noun
The Flex1 materials are a blend of softshell materials that are stretchy, durable, and breathable. — Nathan Allen, Travel + Leisure, 14 Nov. 2025 The water- and wind-resistant, breathable softshell exterior feels similar to other lightweight glove fabrics but did a better job warding off wet snow and freezing temps. — Mark Eller, Outside Online, 13 Dec. 2024
Adjective
The soft-shell crabs and the sunsets alone make Tangier well worth a visit. — Npr Staff, NPR, 18 Dec. 2025 Mating occurs within 30 minutes of molting, when the female is still soft-shelled. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 23 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for softshell

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1830, in the meaning defined above

Adjective

1611, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of softshell was in 1611

Rhymes for softshell

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Browse Nearby Words

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Cite this Entry

“Softshell.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/softshell. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

soft-shell

adjective
ˈsȯf(t)-ˌshel
variants or soft-shelled
-ˈsheld
: having a soft or fragile shell especially as a result of recent shedding
soft-shell crabs
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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