Other Definitions
clam (dict)
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ClamClams are shelled marine or freshwater molluscs belonging to the class Bivalvia. The term "clam" has no taxonomic significance in biology, but is often used to refer to any bivalve (a mollusc whose body is protected by two symmetrical shells) that is not an oyster, not a mussel, and not a scallop, and that has a more-or-less oval shape. For all everyday purposes, a clam is a bivalve that looks like a clam. An exception is the razor clam, which has an elongate shell that suggests an old-fashioned straight razor. Clams can be hard-shelled or soft-shelled, according to the degree of calcification their shells enjoy. They are eaten raw, and are also steamed, boiled, baked or fried. Clams are also a signally important ingredient of clam chowder. Examples of clams
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