Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
on-the-half-shell
idiomatic expression
/ˌɒn ðə hæf ʃɛl/
Definition
A culinary term referring to seafood served in its shell, typically raw or lightly cooked, often associated with oysters.
Examples
- They served the oysters on-the-half-shell with a tangy mignonette sauce.
- For appetizers, we ordered shrimp cocktail and oysters on-the-half-shell.
- Enjoy the fresh flavor of these clams served on-the-half-shell at the seafood festival.
Meaning
The phrase describes a way of serving shellfish, particularly oysters, where they are presented in their shell and usually served chilled, frequently with sauces or lemon.
Synonyms
- raw seafood
- shellfish
- oysters served raw
