clam up

verb

Definition of clam upnext
as in to hush
to stop talking the little girl clammed up when the doctor came into the room

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of clam up Although regulations may usher in more urgency for sustainable action, the laws rolling out around transparent claims could lead to companies clamming up about their initiatives to avoid potential greenwashing penalties. — Sarah Jones, Sourcing Journal, 3 Sep. 2019 While Lydia wallows in the residual pain, Paul has clammed up. — Judy Berman, TIME, 12 Dec. 2024 Judges struggle to name favorite cheese Ask a judge to pick their favorite and most will clam up, dodge the question or offer a long, unranked list. — Kelly Meyerhofer, Journal Sentinel, 7 Mar. 2024
Recent Examples of Synonyms for clam up
  1. hush
  2. dry up
  3. shut up
Verb
  • The Golden State Warriors have extended a final chapter for their dynastic journey, while the Dallas Mavericks are hushing away fake mourners and apoplectic fans.
    — Steven Louis Goldstein, The Athletic, 23 Feb. 2025
  • Standing on the boardwalk near the spring boil, visitors of all ages made remarks of awe and wonder while keeping their voices hushed in a show of reverence for nature’s wonder.
    — Patrick Connolly, Orlando Sentinel, 20 Mar. 2025
Definition of hush
Verb
  • The problem started with the pandemic; although road traffic dried up, the death rate leapt by 20 percent.
    — Jonathan M. Gitlin, ArsTechnica, 9 Apr. 2025
  • This can be risky because if that source dries up, the business could struggle.
    — Adam Fineberg, Forbes.com, 8 Apr. 2025
Definition of dry up
Verb
  • It is put up or shut up time for the UCLA men’s basketball team.
    — Jim Alexander, Orange County Register, 19 Mar. 2025
  • Or shut up’ The members of the Jan. 6 investigative committee are hitting back at President Trump for his threat to nullify the presidential pardons surrounding their work.
    — Aris Folley, The Hill, 17 Mar. 2025
Definition of shut up

Browse Nearby Words

clams up
clam up
clan
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Cite this Entry

“Clam up.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/clam%20up. Accessed 15 Apr. 2025.

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Nglish: Translation of clam up for Spanish Speakers

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