Snapping beetle. (Zool.) See Snap beetle, under Snap. -- Snapping turtle. (Zool.) (a)A large and voracious aquatic turtle (Chelydra serpentina) common in the fresh waters of the United States; -- so called from its habit of seizing its prey by a snap of its jaws. Called also mud turtle.(b)See Alligator snapper, under Alligator. [ 1913 Webster ]