clam
UK: klæm | US: klæm
n. 1. a marine mollusk with a hinged shell
n. 2. (informal) a secretive or silent person
vt. 3. to dig for clams
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The word "clam" originates from Old English clam or clamm, meaning "bond" or "fetter," likely referring to the mollusk’s tightly closed shell. It evolved into Middle English as clamme, retaining the sense of "clamping together." The modern meaning as a shellfish emerged by the 16th century, influenced by the creature’s behavior of clamping its shell shut. The informal sense of a "silent person" (early 20th century) metaphorically extends from the mollusk’s quiet, closed nature.
She collected clams along the shore at low tide.
He’s such a clam—he never shares his feelings.
We spent the afternoon clamming in the bay.
The soup was made with fresh clams and herbs.
Despite the teasing, the child remained a clam.