Trionyx \Tri*on"yx\, n. [NL., fr. Gr. ? (see {Tri-}) + ? a claw.] (Zool.) A genus of fresh-water or river turtles which have the shell imperfectly developed and covered with a soft leathery skin. They are noted for their agility and rapacity. Called also {soft tortoise}, {soft-shell tortoise}, and {mud turtle}. [1913 Webster] Note: The common American species ({Trionyx ferox} syn. {Aspidonectus ferox}) becomes over a foot in length and is very voracious. Similar species are found in Asia and Africa. [1913 Webster]