What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cockle
Example
We went to the beach and collected some fresh cockles for dinner. [cockles: noun]
Example
She enjoys making jewelry using the colorful cockle shells she finds on the shore. [cockle: noun]
clam
Example
He went clamming at the river and caught a bucket full of freshwater clams. [clamming: gerund or present participle]
Example
The restaurant serves delicious linguine with white clam sauce. [clam: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Clam is more commonly used than cockle in everyday language, especially when referring to the edible meat of the mollusk. Cockle is less common and is often used in specific contexts such as discussing shell collecting or crafts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between cockle and clam?
Both cockle and clam are relatively informal words, suitable for casual conversations and informal writing.
