Definition

Noun: 1. An edible clam species characterized by a thin, oval-shaped shell, typically found in coastal regions of the United States and Europe. It is commonly prepared by steaming. 2. The common name for the soft-shell clam (Mya arenaria).

Usage

The term "long-neck clam" is used to specifically identify this type of clam, often in culinary, fishing, or marine biology contexts. It refers to the entire animal.

Examples

• "For the clambake, we bought several dozen long-neck clams to steam."
• "The long-neck clam burrows deeper into the sand than many other clam species."
• "You can identify a long-neck clam by its elongated, oval shell and its protruding siphon or 'neck'."

Advanced Usage

• The name refers to the clam's long, fleshy siphon (neck), which it extends to the surface of the sand or mud to feed and breathe.
• In culinary settings, it is often simply called a "steamer" or "soft-shell clam," especially in the northeastern United States.

Variants and Related Words

• Soft-shell clam: The most common alternative name, referring to its fragile shell which is easily broken.
• Steamer clam / Steamer: A common name in culinary contexts, derived from its primary cooking method.
• Mya arenaria: The scientific (Latin) name for the species.

Synonyms

• Soft-shell clam
• Steamer clam
• Essex clam (regional, UK)
• Sand gaper

Related Phrases/Idioms

No specific idioms use "long-neck clam." It is a straightforward descriptive term for the animal.

Noun

1. an edible clam with thin oval-shaped shell found in coastal regions of the United States and Europe
2. a clam that is usually steamed in the shell