Clam: meaning, definitions and examples
๐ฆช
clam
[ klรฆm ]
marine animal
A clam is a type of bivalve mollusk that lives in both marine and freshwater environments. They have two hinged shells that protect their soft bodies and are typically buried in sand or mud. Clams are known for their ability to burrow into the substrate, which provides them with protection from predators. They filter-feed by drawing in water and extracting plankton and other food particles. Clams are also a popular seafood choice in many cultures around the world.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- We found some clams while digging on the beach.
- Clams are often served in pasta dishes.
- The fishermen caught a large haul of clams today.
speak freely
To clam up means to suddenly stop talking or to refuse to disclose information. This term often describes someone who becomes silent during a conversation or an inquiry. Clamming up can occur due to shyness, fear of judgment, or legal reasons. It's generally considered a form of evasion in communication, leading to frustration for the person seeking information. The phrase is often used in informal contexts.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- He tends to clam up when asked about his past.
- During the interrogation, the suspect clammed up completely.
- She clammed up as soon as the question was asked.
Translations
Translations of the word "clam" in other languages:
๐ต๐น molusco
๐ฎ๐ณ เคเฅเคฒเฅเคฎ
๐ฉ๐ช Muschel
๐ฎ๐ฉ kerang
๐บ๐ฆ ะผะพะปััะบ
๐ต๐ฑ maลลผ
๐ฏ๐ต ใใใฐใช
๐ซ๐ท palourde
๐ช๐ธ almeja
๐น๐ท istiridye
๐ฐ๐ท ์กฐ๊ฐ
๐ธ๐ฆ ู ุญุงุฑ
๐จ๐ฟ muลกle
๐ธ๐ฐ muลกฤพa
๐จ๐ณ ่ค่
๐ธ๐ฎ ลกkoljka
๐ฎ๐ธ skeljar
๐ฐ๐ฟ าะฐะฑัา
๐ฌ๐ช แฎแแแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ dษniz qapaฤฤฑ
๐ฒ๐ฝ almeja
Etymology
The word 'clam' originated in the early 14th century, deriving from the Middle English term 'clam' or 'clame,' which is believed to come from the Old Norse word 'klami' meaning 'a claw' or 'a hook.' This etymology reflects the shellfish's hard, hinged shells that resemble claws. Over time, the term broadened to encompass various species of bivalves in both marine and freshwater habitats. It was likely influenced by the characteristics of clams, specifically how they burrow into soft substrates, much like claws gripping or holding onto surfaces. The usage of 'clam' as a verb, meaning to silence oneself, is believed to have emerged in the American English vernacular during the late 19th century, possibly as a colloquial expression connected to secrecy or withholding information.