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Showing results for soft-shell. Search instead for softshells.
Synonyms

soft-shell

American  
[sawft-shel, soft-] / ˈsɔftˌʃɛl, ˈsɒft- /

adjective

  1. Also soft-shelled having a soft, flexible, or fragile shell, as a crab that has recently molted.


noun

  1. a soft-shell animal, especially a soft-shell crab.

Etymology

Origin of soft-shell

First recorded in 1795–1805


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:

Her husband’s Taco Bell order used to include three soft-shell tacos, a large soda, a Mexican pizza and a Doritos Locos taco.

From The Wall Street Journal ● May 13, 2026

A couple models are sufficiently protective that the wearers don’t have to practice with Guardian Caps, the soft-shell covers that fit over standard helmets to provide additional cushion and protection.

From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 18, 2024

Instead of trying to pick a steamed or boiled green crab, they're better eaten in soft-shell form or used to make flavorful stocks, sauces and butters.

From Salon ● Jul. 20, 2023

The clam shovel makes it easier to dig in the mud and locate clams, while the tube and net are ideal for catching soft-shell clams.

From Seattle Times ● Apr. 25, 2023

“It’s soft-shell crab,” Grandma said, inching forward as the line did.

From "As Brave As You" by Jason Reynolds

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