clam Definition
- 1a type of shellfish that can be eaten, with a shell that is usually oval or triangular and has a rough surface
- 2to refuse to talk or answer questions
Using clam: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "clam" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
I ordered a bowl of clam chowder.
Example
The beach was covered in clam shells.
Example
He clammed up when I asked him about his ex-girlfriend.
Example
She clammed her mouth shut and refused to speak.
clam Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with clam
Example
After finishing her project, she was happy as a clam.
clam up
to become silent or refuse to talk
Example
Whenever I ask him about his past, he clams up.
Example
He's as open as a clam about his personal life.
Summary: clam in Brief
A 'clam' [klæm] is a type of shellfish that can be eaten, with a shell that is usually oval or triangular and has a rough surface. It can also mean to refuse to talk or answer questions, as in 'He clammed up when I asked him about his ex-girlfriend.' Other phrases include 'happy as a clam,' meaning very happy and content, and 'clam up,' meaning to become silent or refuse to talk.