clam-shell

Noun

clamshell (plural clamshells)

1. The shell of a clam.
2. Any object that, in (literal or figurative) resemblance to the shell of a clam, has a hinge on one edge and two surfaces that close together.
   • You'll find a mix among clamshell laptops for strong laps, lunchboxes, and sewing-machine configurations; the latter two designs typically have detachable keyboards.1988 October 11, PC Mag, volume 7, number 17, page 93
   1. A dredging bucket with hinges like the shell of a clam.
      • The wall has been constructed one panel at a time by a machine which uses a clamshell bucket to excavate straight down to a depth of 30 metres. […] Specialised long-reach excavators with a clamshell grab then reach though the openings to lift the spoil to the surface, which is then deposited in...2023 March 8, Chris Howe, “Building the platform for Old Oak Common's platforms”, in RAIL, number 978, page 60
   2. In food service, the closing box (usually styrofoam but sometimes cardboard) given to consumers with takeout food.
   3. A hinged case for a video tape, cassette tape, or video game cartridge.
   4. (US, dated, derogatory, slang) A person's mouth.
      • Shut your clamshell!

See all 12 meanings of clamshell