surf clam

noun

1. any of several typically large common clams of the family Mactridae, inhabiting the zone of breaking surf in coastal waters.

Word History and Origins

Origin of surf clam¹

1880–90; Americanism

Example Sentences

Afran cited numerous sections of the DEP’s April decision on Ocean Wind I acknowledging potential negative impacts on the surf clam industry; changes to the ocean floor from wind turbine foundations and equipment; and the regular use of the area as a migratory channel by five species of whales, including the critically endangered North Atlantic right whale.

From Seattle Times

Those varied influences translate to restaurant week dishes such as crawfish linguine dotted with lobster butter, summer vegetable étouffée, surf clam ceviche and rice pudding with pear pineapple jam.

From Washington Post

Ms. Blamey’s ingredients make an impression not because of their associations with luxury but because she knows how to use them, from the sweet and chewy muscles of the Atlantic surf clam to the dense, sweet-sour flesh of roasted Andean oca.

From New York Times

Most sushi connoisseurs prize a pristine surf clam still wriggling when it hits the counter or a sweet shrimp dancing on the plate.

From Los Angeles Times

But the Atlantic surf clam’s salad-plate-size shells elevate this bivalve to celebrity status among beach-going children of all ages.

From New York Times