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Showing results for half shell. Search instead for on-the-half-shell.

half shell

American  

noun

  1. either of the halves of a double-shelled creature, as of an oyster, clam, or other bivalve mollusk.


Etymology

Origin of half shell

An Americanism dating back to 1855–60


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

Grand Central Market, once known for cheap produce and tacos, had started the gentrification that would bring in Eggslut, gourmet nut-butter sandwiches and oysters on the half shell.

From Los Angeles Times ● Apr. 25, 2023

When I asked where the oysters on the half shell are from, a waiter blurted out “Connecticut.”

From Washington Post ● Jan. 21, 2022

Mr. James recommends slurping his oysters straight from the half shell while they are still raw, whole and full of life force.

From New York Times ● Dec. 17, 2021

Try roasted oysters in chipotle bourbon butter with toasted baguette, raw oyster on the half shell, or borrow the farm’s shucking equipment for a DIY lunch with a dozen oysters.

From Seattle Times ● Nov. 10, 2021

She held out the half shell full of gelatinous glop.

From "Orphan Island" by Laurel Snyder

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