Clam

/klæm/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A marine or freshwater bivalve mollusk with a shell composed of two hinged parts.

We went to the beach and collected clams for our dinner.

A person who is quiet or does not reveal much information.

He was such a clam during the meeting, not saying a word.

verb

To dig for or harvest clams from the shore or seabed.

They enjoyed clamming along the coast during their vacation.

Middle English, from Old English 'clamm' meaning 'a mud or a clam'.

happy as a clam

very happy and content.

clam up

to become silent or refuse to speak.

clamshell

an object or device that opens and closes like a clamshell.

oyster

a similar marine bivalve that is often eaten raw.

scallop

a bivalve mollusk known for its fan-shaped shell.

A dollar or money.

I'm going to need some clams to pay for that.

To keep secrets or be quiet.

He clammed up when asked about the surprise party.