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clams
What does clams mean?
Slang for dollars, drawing on the historical use of shells as currency.
"That'll set you back about fifty clams."
Origin
1920s American slang inspired by Native American shell money; popularized again by SpongeBob SquarePants.
Frequently asked questions
What does clams mean as slang?
It means dollars or money, as in 'fifty clams' for fifty dollars.
Why are dollars called clams?
The term draws on the historical use of shells, including clam shells, as a form of currency by some Native American peoples.
Where did clams as slang for money get popular?
It dates to 1920s American slang and was reintroduced to newer audiences by the cartoon SpongeBob SquarePants.
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