oyster

Definition

Any of certain marine bivalve mollusks, especially those of the family Ostreidae (the true oysters), usually found adhering to rocks or other fixed objects in shallow water along the seacoasts, or in brackish water in the mouth of rivers.

Etymology

From Middle English oystre, from Old English ostre, reinforced or superseded by Anglo-Norman oistre, which is from Old French oistre, uistre (compare modern French huître); both lines (Old English and Old French) from Latin ostrea, from Ancient Greek ὄστρεον (óstreon). Doublet of ostro (“a purple dye”).

Example Sentences

• "Piſt. Why then the world's mine Oyſter, which I, with ſword will open."
• "He was a bold man that first ate an oyster."
• "Cut remaining skin on back. Remove the oyster (choice dark meat in spoon-shaped bone on back) with the leg."