matamata

2 definitions found

matamata - Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 :

  Pleuroderes \Pleu*rod"e*res\, n. pl. [NL., fr. Gr. ? the side +
     ? the neck.] (Zool.)
     A group of fresh-water turtles in which the neck can not be
     retracted, but is bent to one side, for protection. The
     matamata is an example.
     [1913 Webster]

  Matamata \Ma`ta*ma"ta\, n. [Pg.] (Zool.)
     The bearded tortoise (Chelys fimbriata) of South American
     rivers.
     [1913 Webster]