1. the hard upper shell of a turtle, crab, or other arthropod
Usage: biology
2. something likened to a shell as a protective covering
Usage: figurative

Examples

• The turtle retreated into its carapace when threatened.
• The crab’s carapace was bright red after molting.
• Scientists studied the fossilized carapace of an ancient arthropod.
• She built a carapace of indifference to protect herself from criticism.
• The lobster’s carapace gleamed under the restaurant’s lights.
• His emotional carapace made it difficult for others to get close to him.