soft-shell clam

American  

noun

1. an edible clam, Mya arenaria, inhabiting waters along both coasts of North America, having an oval, relatively thin, whitish shell.

---

soft-shell clam British  

noun

1. Sometimes shortened to: soft-shell.  any of several marine clams of the genus Mya , esp M. arenaria, an edible species of coastal regions of the US and Europe, having a thin brittle shell Compare quahog

---

Etymology

Origin of soft-shell clam

An Americanism dating back to 1790–1800

Example Sentences

A good example, she said, was the soft-shell clam fishery, which has suffered millions of dollars in losses.

From Seattle Times

But diners will get a soft-shell clam belly broil made with Ipswich clams, a popular menu item in its day.

From New York Times

Fences have also been placed in the water to protect soft-shell clam populations.

From New York Times

Despite the festive plans, Maine’s soft-shell clam harvest has been falling in recent years.

From Washington Times

Maine’s soft-shell clam harvest has been struggling in recent years.

From Washington Times