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 Spend time stretching throughout the day and add hip-strengthening exercises like side-lying abductions and clamshells to your workout and warmup routines. Lauren Del Turco, Health, 6 Feb. 2024 The carry-on and checked bag duo have similar features that include adjustable handles, aluminum latch closures, and an 80/20 clamshell design that has one larger side for storing bulkier items. Anna Popp, Travel + Leisure, 30 Jan. 2024 Sure, moving the foldable from Point A to Point B is easier than doing so with a 17-inch clamshell. Scharon Harding, Ars Technica, 14 Dec. 2023 Minimalist yet functional, July’s weekender bag was a breeze to pack thanks to its clamshell design and spacious interior. Anna Popp, Travel + Leisure, 30 Jan. 2024 A number of states have passed bans on the use of polystyrene containers for food and other uses, mostly citing environmental concerns, since those tons of plates and clamshells can’t be recycled. Emily Heil, Washington Post, 3 Nov. 2023 Her current routine includes sitting down and standing up repeatedly, pelvic floor exercises, clamshells, and weight lifting. Gina Ryder, STAT, 3 Jan. 2024 The Gram Fold weighs 2.76 pounds (1,250g), which is even lighter than LG's latest Gram clamshell laptop (2.9 pounds). Scharon Harding, Ars Technica, 25 Sep. 2023 Seeing how a clamshell of strawberries expires earlier than average due to a lapse in cold storage means grocers can improve stocking processes to extend freshness and minimize future waste. Ryan Begin, Forbes, 28 Nov. 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'clamshell.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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

Dictionary Entries Near clamshell

Cite this Entry

“Clamshell.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/clamshell. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

clamshell

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

More from Merriam-Webster on clamshell

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