hard-shell clam

noun

1. quahog.

hard-shell clam

noun

1. another name for the quahog

Word History and Origins

Origin of hard-shell clam¹

An Americanism dating back to 1810–20

Example Sentences

When anything is goin' wrong with him he's allus as close-mouthed as a hard-shell clam with the lockjaw.

From Project Gutenberg

The former is sold in the San Francisco markets as the "hard-shell clam."

From Project Gutenberg

When the oyster season closes in April, the hard-shell clam comes into vogue, the season lasting until September or October.

From Project Gutenberg

It cannot compare in flavor with Venus mercenaria, the "hard-shell clam" south of Cape Cod.

From Project Gutenberg