Evidence suggests that a longer version of the saying was circulating prior to the early- to mid-19th century. The meaning is thought to come from the way clams are protected during high tide, and although the connotations have changed slightly, this original concept is still is the heart of the expression today. First Usage
This phrase is actually a part of the bigger phrase “happy as a clam in high water” or “at high tide.”
And here I thought it was simply because their opening looked like an ear to ear grin… the more ya know! Thank you!
That’s probably part of it since I assume they would open to feed when high tide happens
L. Ron Hubbard would disagree. Scientology doctrine holds that we inherit all our stress and anxiety from clams who were our ancestors, and their tension between their desire to open and close their hinge. (It is apparently possible to stress out an indoctrinated Scientologist by making opening and closing motions with one’s hand, subliminally reminding them of this.)
Oh that’s why it’s called Operation Clambake.
Mate, are you for cereal? I believe you, but, fr fr? Thanks for the share, that’s wild!
Clams have feelings too
