turn turtle

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The same terrific force gave the steamer a lurch, and she threatened to turn turtle.

From The Boys of the Wireless by Webster, Frank V.

Q. But do not the iron-clads comprising this fleet frequently turn turtle?

From Punch, or the London Charivari, Vol. 105, September 9, 1893 by Various

For one giddy moment Mr. A. Bubble appeared to be uncertain whether to turn turtle or go on the way he was headed.

From The Automobile Girls at Chicago or, Winning Out Against Heavy Odds by Crane, Laura Dent

He had either to crash squarely into the other automobile or he had to run the risk of having his own machine turn turtle.

From Bert Wilson at the Wheel by Duffield, J. W.

You see, the boat is top-heavy, owing to the cabin superstructure, and it wouldn't be impossible for her to turn turtle in a heavy sea.

From The Chauffeur and the Chaperon by Anderson, Karl