clamshell

noun

clam·​shell ˈklam-ˌshel How to pronounce clamshell (audio)
1
: the shell of a clam
2
a
: a bucket or grapple (as on a dredge) having two hinged jaws
b
: an excavating machine having a clamshell
c
: either of a pair of doors (as in an airplane tail) that open out and away from each other
d
: a hinged container, case, or cover that opens like the shell of a clam

Examples of clamshell in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
With an active intake grille, the front fascia looks very sleek, even with the clamshell hood. Utkarsh Sood june 05, New Atlas, 5 June 2026 My first impression was its clean, grey clamshell design. John Burek, PC Magazine, 1 June 2026 Keep things interesting by arranging containers in different sizes and styles, like this old-fashioned strawberry pot and giant clamshell. Steve Bender, Southern Living, 30 May 2026 Lift the right knee up and out to the side, externally rotating your right hip for a clamshell. Mallory Creveling, Health, 15 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for clamshell

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1520, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of clamshell was circa 1520

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Cite this Entry

“Clamshell.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/clamshell. Accessed 16 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

clamshell

noun
clam·​shell ˈklam-ˌshel How to pronounce clamshell (audio)
: the shell of a clam

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