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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

Our food writers have recommended the roasted oysters in chipotle bourbon butter with toasted baguette, raw oysters on the half shell or trying to shuck yourself for a DIY experience.

From Seattle Times May 29, 2022

Muscadet, the crisp white wine from the region near the mouth of the Loire River, is a traditional match for oysters on the half shell.

From Washington Post Aug. 6, 2021

I was craving clams on the half shell.

From New York Times Jul. 30, 2020

Today we make five pounds of shrimp, some clams on the half shell, four vegetable trays with broccoli, cauliflower, celery and carrots, and three trays of mushroom vol-au-vents.

From "Ask the Passengers" by A.S. King

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