clamshell

American  

[klam-shel] / ˈklæmˌʃɛl /

noun

1. the shell of a clam.

2. an object that has two hinged parts and that opens and closes like a clamshell, as a laptop computer or a box with a cover joined on one side.

   This clamshell is lightweight, convenient, and as powerful as my desktop computer.

3. Machinery.

   1. Also called clamshell bucket.  a dredging bucket opening at the bottom, consisting of two similar pieces hinged together at the top.

   2. a machine equipped with such a bucket.

4. Printing. a platen press.

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adjective

1. of or noting an object that opens and closes like a clamshell: clamshell packaging.

   a clamshell phone;

   clamshell packaging.

clamshell British  

/ ˈklæmˌʃɛl /

noun

1. a dredging bucket that is hinged like the shell of a clam

2. aeronautics

   1. an aircraft cockpit canopy hinged at the front and rear

   2. the hinged door of a cargo aircraft

   3. another name for eyelid

3. any of a variety of objects hinged like the shell of a clam, such as a container for takeaway food, a portable computer, etc

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Etymology

Origin of clamshell

1490–1500; earlier clam-shell; see clam ¹, shell

Example Sentences

The product is packaged in clear plastic clamshell containers bearing the Kirkland Signature brand label with a package date of Sept. 18.

From Salon • Sep. 24, 2025

“I’m afraid of the disappointment of paying $6 for a tiny clamshell of strawberries only for them to taste like a bland Hello Kitty eraser,” she said.

From Slate • Mar. 6, 2025

Clicking through the branching dialogue, you learn that Tess still loves her father, who appears via text messages on a silver clamshell cellphone.

From New York Times • Mar. 28, 2024

There’s no mermaid in sight, but the aqua-hued room with an oversized clamshell headboard unquestionably pays tribute to “The Little Mermaid.”

From Seattle Times • Oct. 15, 2023

A pea pod or a clamshell or a flower bud—something natural.

From "The School for Whatnots" by Margaret Peterson Haddix