turtle head meaning (slang): definition, etymology

turtle head

verb

Etymology By analogy with the manner whereby a turtle's or tortoise's head gradually emerges from the shell, after having been kept inside for some time for defensive or resting purposes. When threatened (such as by contact), the head rapidly retreats into the shell, which might have further reinforced the vulgar analogy.

Idiomatic, Slang, Vulgar, Of feces To emerge partially from the body, as a result of heightened internal pressure in the bowels.

Euphemistic, Idiomatic, Slang, Vulgar, Of a person To struggle to keep an imminent bowel movement wholly inside oneself.

Synonyms: crown, grow a tail, prairie dog