pooquaw

English

Etymology

Shortening of the earlier spelling pequaock, from Narragansett poquauhock.

Noun

pooquaw (plural pooquaws)

1. (US, Nantucket dialect) Hard-shelled clam.
   • 1881, Harriet B. Worron, "Trustum" and his grandchildren, page 89:

     'Pooquaws,' says he, 'I'm hunting for pooquaws for a shearing pie, but they seems to be so scarce I guess I'll go off and drive up my sheep.'

   • 1999, Joan Aiken, Nightbirds on Nantucket:

     "And a mess o' pooquaws in case your auntie fancies a bit o' fish. Is she any better today?"